Giddy Up! Horse Racing Season Off to a Start in Iran

Horseracing is probably the most popular sport in the northeastern regions of Iran, which is predominantly populated by Iranian Turkmen. The hippodrome at Gonbad-e Kavus, a city in the province of Golestan, was completely packed as almost 20,000 spectators of all ages gathered to cheer on the first horse racing contest after the winter break.

"May the strongest prevail," Ata Kor, a horse racing commentator, told Sputnik. "Horseracing is a captivating sight, but I try to remain impartial. I like all of the participants, and while I cheer for none, I value each and every one of them, horses and trainers alike."

According to the races’ organizer, this year’s season will be quite eventful and tickets are being sold very quickly.