Equestrian Clubs Keep the Ancestral Sport of Javelin Alive
The equestrian clubs of Erzincan and Bayburt are dedicated to preserving the ancient sport of cirit, a traditional horseback javelin game.
More than just a sport, cirit matches held by equestrian clubs in Erzincan and Bayburt play a vital role in keeping an age-old tradition alive.
A Centuries-Old Ancestral Sport
Cirit is an ancestral sport that has been practiced for centuries. However, due to modern lifestyle changes, the number of practitioners has declined. Despite challenges, the people of Erzincan and Bayburt continue to uphold this centuries-old tradition under difficult conditions.
Tourist Interest in Cirit
Demonstrations performed by young cirit enthusiasts attract the attention of both local and international tourists.
Braving the Cold for Their Passion
Even in harsh winter conditions, young riders train on snow-covered fields, showing their dedication to the sport and enjoying their time on horseback despite the freezing temperatures.
During cirit matches, riders gallop their horses at full speed across the snowy terrain, striving to keep their ancestral sport alive and pass it on to future generations.
“We Are Following in Our Ancestors’ Footsteps”
Cirit player Efe Yılmaz described their sport as follows:
“Here, we are striving to keep our ancestral sport, cirit, alive. We spend our time here, have fun, and engage in sports, combining multiple activities in one. We are following in our ancestors’ footsteps.”
