Horse race returns to Palestinian village after wartime halt

A local horse race resumed in the West Bank village of Al-Majd, located west of Hebron, following a two-year hiatus imposed during the Gaza war. Despite ongoing tensions, Palestinians returned to their tradition of racing Arabian horses through the village's hills, receiving enthusiastic cheers from residents. Event coordinator Ismael Abu Awad noted that financial and logistical constraints limit the resources available to support the riders, but they strive to provide whatever assistance they can.

The annual race, which has taken place in the Israeli-occupied West Bank, celebrated the significance of Arabian horses in Palestinian culture. Horse races and equestrian championships are held across the region, drawing competitors from various towns and villages. While open land has become scarce due to the expansion of Israeli settlements since 1967, horse culture continues to unite Palestinians from urban neighborhoods to rural communities.

For the local community, the race transcended mere sports and served as a means to preserve a cherished aspect of Arab heritage passed down through generations. Abu Awad expressed that the event aimed to uphold the traditions cherished by ancestors. Additionally, the race provided an opportunity for local jockeys who face difficulties participating in international races, as some horses and riders struggle to travel to destinations like Jordan or abroad.

Though facing challenges, participants harbored aspirations that extended beyond the local track. Racer Mohammed Al-Ajlouni expressed his desire to travel to Italy to ride horses, while also dreaming of a future where racing continues to flourish in Al-Majd.