Welcome to vnonline.co.uk

vnonline.co.uk provides the veterinary nursing profession with the latest news and industry developments, as well as events, resources, learning materials and careers.

Our website is dedicated to veterinary nurses and we strive to provide a platform where you can voice and explore your interests.

Not a member yet? Sign up for free!

Register for free with vnonline.co.uk to gain unlimited access to news, resources, jobs and much more!



Click here to become a member






Log in to vnonline

Forgot your password?

Posted: 3rd January 2013

Elephants show off football skills at festival
Nepal celebrates International Elephant Festival

The 9th International Elephant Festival in Nepal saw elephants of all ages partaking in a range of activities to highlight the endangered species and promote local conservation work.

The International Elephant Festival, which takes place in the Chitwan region of the country, has become increasingly popular with locals and tourists.

As part of the festival, young elephants from the area took part in a friendly game of football. The two teams of four which made it to the final were sponsored by the Kist Bank and the Gasuri Shankar Bank. The final result ended with the Kist Bank team triumphing 6-0. An elephant named Pelé emerged as the star of the show receiving the ‘mammoth of the match’ award.

Other activities included an elephant race which saw 20 elephants racing down a 300 metre track. Trainers of some animals painted white patterns on the elephant's bodies and painted their nails red. The race was won by an elephant named Bahadur Gaj.

Ninety elephants and their handlers also took part in a beauty contest. Contestants were assessed on their decorations, including headdresses and painted toenails. Just three made it through to the final with Chitwan Kali emerging victorious, with a panel of five judges praising her decorations and cleanliness.

Shankar Sainju, the founding president of the organising committee of Elephant festival, said their next phase in planning is to begin building a fully fledged stadium only for animal sports - with elephants regularly playing games of football. Their aim is to have it completed within the next five years.



Become a member or log in to add this story to your CPD history



Latest news | Careers | Events | Resources | Contact us | Terms and conditions | Data Protection and Privacy |Cookie policy | About us | Copyright
© 2024 Vision Media, all rights reserved. vnonline.co.uk is not responsible for the content of external websites.