On the morning of 19/9, over 20,000 spectators gathered at the central stadium of Do Son ward to witness the championship match of the Do Son Buffalo Fighting Festival. Buffalo number 15, owned by Le Ba Ngoc, secured the title and a 100 million dong prize, triumphing over buffalo number 21. Both buffaloes had previously advanced through 16 qualifying rounds.

Known for its enduring stamina and strategic attacks, buffalo number 15, weighing around 900 kg, was purchased in Ha Noi. It stands 154 cm tall, is 225 cm long, has a chest girth of 244 cm, and a horn span of 70 cm. This victory marks the third time a buffalo owned by Le Ba Ngoc has won the Do Son Buffalo Fighting Festival, with previous wins in 1993 and 2005.

The final match was a breathtaking contest between buffaloes number 21 and 15. *Photo: Le Tan*

The organizing committee awarded the championship prize of 100 million dong to the owner of buffalo number 15. Buffalo number 21 received the second prize of 70 million dong, while two third prizes, each valued at 30 million dong, were also distributed, alongside various other subsidiary awards.

This year's festival introduced several innovations to enhance visitor experience. On the afternoon of 18/9, an expanded Do Son ward folk wrestling festival took place at 15/5 Square, drawing approximately 30 athletes from 20 clubs both within and outside the city.

Additionally, on the evening of the same day, Do Son debuted its first street carnival. The parade featured 8 model floats depicting the 15 "buffalo lords" (finalists), accompanied by lion, unicorn, and dragon dance teams, and approximately 400 festival participants. The procession commenced from Dam Vuong Park and concluded at 15/5 Square, creating a vibrant blend of traditional culture and modern urban ambiance.

The stands of Do Son stadium were packed with people. *Photo: Le Tan*

Following the matches, buffaloes that lose are sacrificed, and their meat is sold for 4 to 5 million dong per kilogram. The champion buffalo will undergo a special ceremony tomorrow.

The Do Son Buffalo Fighting Festival has deep roots in the worship of Diem Tuoc Dai Vuong, the protective deity of Do Son's land and waters. This tradition has evolved over centuries, passed down through generations, and is intrinsically linked to the region's development and its people.

After a period of suspension, the festival was revived in 1990 and has been held annually since. In 2012, the festival received recognition from the Ministry of Culture.

Le Tan