Goat-grabbing, or buzkashi, is a traditional folk sport in which participants attempt to grab a processed goat skin while riding yaks.
The sport has been passed down through generations. In 2009, it was recognized and included in the list of intangible cultural heritage of northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region.
Let's experience the excitement of a contest held in Xinjiang's Yili Valley on February 22!
A view of the Yili Valley in northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, February 22, 2025. /VCG
Herders participate in buzkashi in the Yili Valley of northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, February 22, 2025. /VCG
A herder plays buzkashi in the Yili Valley in northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, February 22, 2025. /VCG
Herders play buzkashi in the Yili Valley in northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, February 22, 2025. /VCG
A view of the Yili Valley of northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, February 22, 2025. /VCG
Herders play buzkashi in the Yili Valley in northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, February 22, 2025. /VCG
Herders play buzkashi in the Yili Valley in northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, February 22, 2025. /VCG