The Mountain calls #panjshir

Buzkashi, which literally translated means “goat grabbing” is the national sport of Afghanistan. Many historians believe that Buzkashi began with the Turkic-Mongol people, and it is indigenously shared by the people of Northern Afghanistan. There are two main types of Buzkashi, Tudabarai and Qarajai. Tudabarai is relatively simple compared with Qarajai, even though they share similar objectives. In Buzkashi, a headless carcass is placed in the center of a circle and surrounded by the players of two opposing teams. The object of the game, is to get control of the carcass and bring it to the scoring area. Although it seems like a simple task, it is not. Only the most masterful players, (called chapandaz) ever even get close to the carcass. The competition is fierce, and the winner of a match receives prizes that have been donated by a sponsor. These prizes range from money, to fine turbans and clothes. In order for someone to become a chapandaz, one must undergo a tremendous amount of difficult training. In fact, the best chapandaz, are usually over the age of forty. Buzkashi, is definitely not a game for the weak. The players are not the only ones who undergo arduous training; the horses that participate in buzkashi must train for five years before ever making it to the playing field. Buzkashi, is indeed a dangerous sport, but intensive training and excellent communication between the horse and rider can help minimize the risk of injury. . Caption By Abdullah Qazi (1997) . . #afganistan #buzkashi #nationalsport #everdayafghanistan #kabul

Every time I visit Bamyan and the broken statue of Buddha, it reminds me of the dark old days and the resilience of Afghans to ignorance. The Buddha is just like us, hurt but strong. On March 11, 2001, Taliban blew up the two giant Buddha's statues in #Bamyan. Now, they getting ready to start peace negotiations with Afghanistan government. We are able to forgive, but we will never forget.. . . #bamyan #everydaybamyan #everydayeverywhere #buddha #afganistan

Out here, life makes sense.

First hike: Happy tourists. Second hike: Two NPCs struggling to respawn. . . #Survivalmood #hiking

Fog-draped hills at sunset in Shenandoah, Virginia.

a dreamy escape unfolds. 🪐

Lost in the beauty of #California's wonders

Waiting, wishing, thinking

Homeland Panjshir

I plan on having an amazing, incredible, super, fantastic year full of many new adventures and crazy travels! My Birthday means I’m another year older and another year wiser! You better watch out! 24 🏃🏻

Sun will rise and we will try again