In a vibrant display of tradition and celebration, hundreds of Cambodian villagers gathered in Romduol village to revive a centuries-old custom: the oxcart race. Against the backdrop of the Khmer Lunar New Year festivities, participants from four provinces competed in this exhilarating event, commemorating the end of the rice harvest season.

Under the scorching sun, spectators lined a 0.62-mile dirt track, cheering fervently as fifty pairs of oxcarts thundered past. The race not only honored Cambodia’s rich heritage but also showcased the enduring significance of the oxcart, a symbol of rural life and agricultural prowess.

While modernization threatens the traditional role of the oxcart, events like these serve as a poignant reminder of its cultural importance. For Khem Rithy, a first-time spectator and teacher, witnessing this spectacle was an opportunity to connect with Cambodia’s cultural roots and instill pride in the younger generation.

As Cambodia embraces progress, preserving its cultural legacy remains paramount. Reviving traditions like the oxcart race not only fosters community spirit but also underscores the importance of safeguarding heritage for generations to come.