DENPASAR (indo.com): The "Mekepung" (buffalo race) is a thanks-giving ritual that is usually held after a successful harvest. It is organized by the local committee of rice cultivators (subak) and involves hundreds of buffalos. This year, this event is to be held in the second week of August 2001 in Jembrana in the Western part of Bali.

The animals that participate in the race are actually water buffalo. These normally docile, sluggish creatures charge maniacally down a 2 km stretch of road or beach pulling tiny decorative chariots, which are often little more than a sort of plough used in the fields. The rider stands or kneels on top of the chariots and spurs the buffalo on, twisting their tails to steer them round the makeshift racetrack.

Important races are generally held throughout this part of Bali from August to October. Occasional races are also set up for tourist groups at a park in Perancak on the coast and minor races are also regularly held in the area. These start at daybreak every Sunday, usually finishing by noon.

The winner, surprisingly, is not necessarily the first past the post. Style also plays an important part and points are awarded for the most elegant runner. Every farmer is obliged to enter a buffalo in the race, and the winner receives a gift - previously, this was a pair of cows and set of cultivation equipment. These days the exact nature of the prize can vary, depending on the decision of the senior members of the Subak.