The unique ball scrambling festival of Thuy Linh village in Hoang Mai district, Hanoi took place on February 8.

The festival took place at the ancient temple of the village. According to its elderly residents, the festival has been held for hundreds of years, for men 18-20 years old. In the past, eight competitors wearing white trousers and red belts represented eight tigers scrambling for four balls and four shuttle-cocks.

Today, the rules of the game have changed. Children scramble for a 10kg ball while young men compete for a 20kg one.

The game is held on a 300sq.m yard for two hours. There are four differently colored holes on the yard. Eight competitors are divided into four teams who scramble for the ball to bring it to their team’s hole.

Two players who wear red belts win the game, and are awarded VND3 million ($150).

Source: VNE