Why Lesotho's horse races are such a big deal

Every year, young jockeys go head-to-head in the village of Semonkong, in Lesotho's Maluti Mountains, putting their equestrian skills to the test. The event offers a welcome opportunity to briefly forget about the country's economic hardship. Here, colorfully dressed spectators, keeping warm with heavy blankets, accompany a jockey to a race.

One unspoken rule is that Lesotho jockeys should never think about everyday problems while racing, lest they risk falling. The small landlocked nation of 2.4 million people faces many challenges: Though rich in natural resources, Lesotho is one of the poorest countries in the world with high youth unemployment.

A proud, mud-splattered jockey has his photo taken. In some places across Lesotho, horse races are even more popular than football. After all, riders who win a race can take home the equivalent of nearly $85 (€72), a significant chunk of cash considering that many people in Lesotho live on about $2 a day.

Betting is an integral part of horse races in Lesotho, though there are no tickets or betting slips. Punters bet amongst themselves, exchanging cash and shaking hands on the wager. Most bets center on which horse will outrun another, or pass the finish line first.

European settlers first brought horses to Lesotho. Generations of breeding and crossbreeding finally produced the Basotho pony, a sturdy, medium-sized animal known for its endurance — making it a popular racehorse. Yet horses also play a big role outside of racing. Many of Lesotho's herdsmen also rely on them, and they're useful for reaching remote locations.

The young jockeys and their steeds bolt down racetracks that stretch between 800 and 1,200 meters (875 to 1,312 yards). It's not uncommon for them to compete against each several times over because they just can't get enough. "I like fast horses," said a smiling jockey who has already completed seven races. "It makes me enjoy."