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)