The Sinjska alka is an equestrian competition which has been held every first Sunday in the month of August in town of Sinj, Croatia since 1715,commemorating the victory over Ottoman Turks. It consists of an equestrian competition, in which various horsemen attempt to aim their lances at a hanging metal ring (alka) at full gallop.
In 2010 it has been inscribed in UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage List. Alka is also the name of the object used in the tournament, made of two concentric ring. The contestant-„alkar“- rides his horse down the race track and tries to hit the central ring with his spear in full gallop. Depending on which part of the alka he hits,receives points from 1 to 3,and no points if he misses.
Only men born in Sinjska krajina can take part in the Alka. The “Duke of Alka“ is a ceremonial title representing the commander.The costumes worn by the alkar’s are the same that were worn by the warriors in the 18th century.
PHOTO Wikimedia