06/17/26 11:10:00
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06/17 23:06 CDT Photos show a centuries-old mountain tradition in the world's
highest polo ground
Photos show a centuries-old mountain tradition in the world's highest polo
ground
By MUNIR AHMED and ZUBAIR ABBASI
Associated Press
SHANDUR, Pakistan (AP) --- Cheers echoed through the high mountains of northern
Pakistan's Shandur Pass as horses thundered across the green expanse of the
world's highest polo ground, the Shandur Polo Field, at an altitude of about
3,700 meters (12,000 feet).
Wooden mallets sliced through the thin mountain air as thousands of spectators
erupted in celebration.
Against snowcapped peaks and clear blue skies, Shandur once again became a
meeting point of sport, tradition and culture over the weekend as the annual
polo festival returned to the "roof of the world."
On the sidelines, spectators watched freestyle mountain polo, a centuries-old
tradition still practiced in Pakistan's northern regions.
As play began, smiles, laughter and bursts of excitement filled the makeshift
stands, where families, tourists and residents sat shoulder to shoulder along
the rugged mountainside. Children waved flags, elders watched wrapped in warm
shawls and groups of friends cheered as the fast-paced game turned the remote
plateau into a lively celebration of community.
After more than a decade, Gilgit-Baltistan's polo team lifted the Shandur Polo
Festival trophy this week, defeating longtime rivals Chitral 6-5 in a thrilling
final at the historic ground.
The victory triggered jubilant celebrations as players and supporters waved
flags, chanted slogans and embraced after a closely contested match that lasted
nearly an hour.
Often called the "game of kings," polo is traditionally associated with royalty
and elite circles worldwide. At Shandur, however, it reflects a different
spirit, rooted in mountain communities, local pride and enduring cultural
heritage. The freestyle version played here is considered one of the oldest
forms of the sport still in existence.
The three-day festival was organized with support from the Pakistan Army, the
provincial government of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and the regional Gilgit-Baltistan
government. The closing ceremony was attended by Peshawar Corps Commander Lt.
Gen. Omar Ahmed Bokhari, highlighting official backing for cultural heritage,
sports and tourism in the region.
Beyond polo, the plateau transformed into a broader cultural festival featuring
music, folk dances and local cuisine.
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Ahmed reported from Islamabad.
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