Hmong hill tribe people drove their ‘Formula Hmong’ wooden carts, racing down the hills as part of the indigenous people’s way of life in northern Thailand.
Competitors, spanning both professional and amateur categories, maneuvered their wooden carts down a 400-meter track, vying for cash prizes totaling nearly 10,000 Baht during the World Formula Hmong Racing event at Doi Mae Chaem in Nong Hoi village, Chiang Mai.
The participants, racing in pairs with their Formula Hmong carts, navigated the downhill slopes, needing to secure victory in 2 out of 3 races to advance, while the losers faced elimination. The quest for the ultimate champion and runner-up intensified throughout the competition, drawing cheers from both international tourists and the local Hmong community.
The event also featured showcases of young Formula Hmong racers, with international participants adding to the excitement by joining in for testing sessions.
The wooden cart, traditionally used by the Hmong hill tribe to transport agricultural products from high-altitude areas to lower towns has deep roots in the Hmong culture.
While motorized vehicles have become more prevalent, the wooden cart races continue to be a symbol of unity and camaraderie among the Hmong community during the festive New Year season. (TNA)
