Turkmen horse racing

For Turkmens a horse is not just an animal but a family member and a source of pride, and horse races have long been held at weddings and festivals, with valuable prizes for the winners.

Hardy, fast Akhal-Teke horses race over long distances, and Ashgabat has a modern hippodrome that regularly hosts major races.

On the last Sunday of April each year Turkmenistan celebrates Akhal-Teke Horse Day with beauty contests, races and jockey displays.