The annual horse racing event during the Shoton Festival in Lhasa, Tibet, is a vibrant celebration of Tibetan culture, tradition, and athleticism. Drawing over 25,000 spectators, the festival features daring equestrian performances, competitive races, and communal activities like yogurt tasting and Tibetan opera. For Tibetans, horsemanship is deeply rooted in heritage, passed down through generations, and serves as a symbol of community pride and cultural identity.

In modern times, horse racing in Xizang has expanded beyond rural grasslands to urban racetracks, attracting tourists and blending tradition with commercial opportunities. The sport remains a vital part of Tibetan life, marking important celebrations and embodying hopes for prosperity and unity. As riders continue to honor family legacies and cultural values, Tibetan horsemanship gallops forward as a living tradition connecting past and present.