7/12/2006: Chinese horse fighting

Two studs are going to fight given enough time, just the way it is.
We are too far removed from nature.
I have to say that the idea of enjoying it, betting on it, is foreign to me... but not "despicable".
Cock and dog fights where they are bred and armed so it is to the death, outside of nature, is another thing all together.
As for bull fighting... I place myself in the bull's place.
Would I want to die as just something raised as food alone, or as a warrior (what a bull is) with one last shot to get one chance to take one of "them" out with me? No-brainier.

[xoxoxoBruce]

From Billy's link to the 2 guys retracing the route of Mao's Long March, in China.

Away from the dance contest on the main square, the most excitable crowd was gathered around the bull ring - actually a trampled rape field - where the bullfighting contests began in mid-afternoon. The Miao don't fight in the Catalan fashion; they pit one bull against another in a trial of strength. This lasts either until one bull clearly proves its superiority, or is stopped and declared a draw if there is no winner after 5 minutes.

This still isn't entertainment for animal lovers - after one fight, the bulls were separated only for one to then break away from its handlers and charge back into the fray, goring its opponent. The bulls butt with such force that they do sometimes kill each other.

On the other side of the festival area was the cockfighting area. This was one of the most revolting spectacles I've ever seen, so I'll spare you the photo. The cocks fight until one gives up, and that can be a long time and leave both in a bloody mess. There are no prizes - it's just for fun and, tellingly was watched by men only.