Double tie stuns Gurupura Kambala as buffalo pairs match speeds twice

Mangalore Today News Network

Mangaluru, April 15, 2025: In the thrilling world of Kambala — the traditional buffalo race held on slushy tracks — gauging the speed of the racing buffaloes is no easy feat. With their immense strength and speed, each race is a gripping spectacle. But at the recent Gurupura Kambala, an extraordinary event unfolded: not once, but twice, two competing buffalo pairs finished with exactly the same time.

The rare incident occurred near the Gurupura Mutt during the semi-finals of the Sub-Junior category. Felix D’Souza’s pair faced off against Usman Siraj’s team from Suribail Khanda. In their first sprint, both teams raced neck and neck, ending in a tie. A second run was held to break the deadlock — yet incredibly, it also resulted in a draw with identical timings once again.

It wasn’t until a third and final run that Felix D’Souza’s buffaloes clinched victory. While ties have happened in past Kambala seasons, this marked the first double-tie of the current season — a rare and thrilling occurrence that captivated spectators and competitors alike.

This dramatic event underscored not only the intense competition but also the razor-thin margins that define victory in this centuries-old sport rooted in speed, skill, and tradition.