First-round of buzkashi tournament kicks off in Kunduz

KUNDUZ CITY (Pajhwok): First round of a buzkashi tournament featuring horsemen known as chapandazan from districts and the provincial capital of northern Kunduz province kicked off on Wednesday, an official said.

Qari Izatullah Sinan, director of General Physical Training and Sports, said the purpose of the event was to encourage athletes and identify top horsemen for the Buzkashi Premier League.

Meanwhile, the chapandazan who participated in the competition said holding such tournaments had been beneficial for their preparation in lead up to the Buzkashi Premier League.

Jan Muhammad, a horse rider, said: "Winter season is approaching and the Buzkashi Premier League will be started soon and we are fully prepared and we will be the champion of this year Buzkashi Premier League.”

The buzkashi competition is being held while Kunduz chapandazans dominated last year’s Buzkashi Premier League.

kk/ma