Buffaloes to take the plunge

Buffaloes to take the plunge

BANJARMASIN, South Kalimantan (JP): Hulu Sungai Utara regent
Suhailin Muchtar has come up with a way to attract foreign
tourists: a swimming contest for buffaloes.

The regent was inspired during a traditional ceremony last
year when a great many Australian, New Zealand and European
tourists doubled up with laughter upon seeing local water
buffaloes swimming in a river. Buffaloes are a common sight in
the rivers and swamps of South Kalimantan.

"We are hopeful the buffaloes will make South Kalimantan known
in other countries. We will hold the race annually and put it on
the tourist calendar," the regent was quoted as saying by Antara.

The contest will be open to all domestic buffaloes. Jockeys
will mount the buffalo and take them across the river. Two
linesmen will be on hand in a motor boat to make sure no beast
strays off track or drowns.

Several dozen water buffaloes are being signed up for the next
race. The report did not say if the race committee will offer
trophies, cash prizes or swimming lessons to the animals. (pan)