Jumla:Chhapendra Neupane has claimed first place in the annual horse racing competition aimed at promoting horse rearing in the region. The event is traditionally held during the Bada Dashain festival.
According to National News Agency Nepal, the competition was organized by the local Chandannath Municipality with support from the Veterinary Hospital and Animal Service Office, and coordinated by the Karnali Art and Culture Preservation Forum, Jumla. This year, 24 participants competed, with Dilip Bohora finishing second and Arjun Basnet securing third place.
Mayor Raju Singh Kathayat of Chandannath Municipality highlighted the competition’s purpose, which is to protect and establish the identity of the Jumli breed of horse. The event aims to promote the Jumli stock of horses and boost local tourism.
Gyanendra Budthapa, head of the Veterinary Hospital and Animal Service Office, emphasized that the event also seeks to connect the horses’ identity with local culture and traditions, thereby enhancing tourism.
The Karnali Art and Culture Conservation Forum Jumla announced that the winner of the competition will receive Rs 15,000. The runner-up will also receive Rs 15,000, while the third-place finisher will be awarded Rs 10,000 in prize money.