Nowruz PRT vs. Bamyan: Tug-Of-War Challenge

BAYMAN PROVINCE, AFGHANISTAN

03.27.2010

Courtesy Story

Combined Joint Task Force - 82 PAO

BAMYAN PROVINCE, Afghanistan — Thousands gather to participate in the Nowruz celebrations. Nowruz is the largest and best known festival in Afghanistan, particularly in Mazar e Sharif, where it is called Gul e Sorkh. During this time, the local community gather together to celebrate the New Year with song and dance, and farmers celebrate in hope of new growth and a bountiful season.

The location chosen for this year's festivities took place at the foot of the famous Buddhas, located just outside the Bamyan Township. A performing stage was set up with the Buddha's in the back drop, and the entertainment consisted of local bands and dance troops, who entertained the crowds for the entire day.

This year, the New Zealand Provincial Reconstruction Team was invited to take part in the annual Tug-of-War challenge between teams from villages around Bamyan province. The NZ PRT team consisting of 15 volunteers, competed against the strongest and toughest from Bamyan. The spectators cheered as both teams entered the area where the battle for bragging rights would ensue.

There were no shortages of participants from the local population, as some attempted to join the competition after the start. They were all extremely excited about the opportunity to compete against the PRT.

As the whistle blew, the crowd went wild, screaming and shouting, chanting words of encouragement for their team. A steady build up of dust drifted through the crowds as both teams gave everything they had, the rope straining under the enormous tension. Both teams started off evenly, neither one having a real advantage on the loose dusty gravel, but soon the home team gained their footing and momentum as the crowds cheered them on.

It was all over in a couple of minutes, with the home Bamyan team taking it away this year. There were big smiles all around as hands were shook and congratulations were made for a battle well fought, and as the NZ PRT team walked out of the arena, the crowds showed their support and appreciation for their participation during this important festival. The winning team took the stage and broke into song and dance, everyone was happy with the outcome of the final event.

Although the NZ PRT came off second best at this competition, it was a success from a relationship perspective as it helped to develop closer ties with the community, and forge new relationships.

• Date Taken: 03.27.2010
• Date Posted: 03.27.2010 14:03
• Story ID: 47317
• Location: BAYMAN PROVINCE, AF