In America when I think of wrestling, I imagine the high school sport or of Mixed Martial Arts matches. But did you know that traditional wrestling is the national sport of Senegal and is even more popular than soccer in that country? Images of popular wrestlers can be found on billboards, and you can watch professional fights on TV or in the national wrestling stadium.
But the most traditional matches happen in countryside where two villages will send their best wrestlers to compete. A lutte has multiple fights, and the village with the most wins will win a prize of rice or money. Luttes always take place at night during the full moon, since most villages don't have street lights. Matches take place in circular arenas made of dirt or sand, and the goal is to pin the other wrestler to the ground. Matches can last anywhere from 60 seconds to several minutes. Most importantly, the entire village will watch to support their wrestlers.
I had the opportunity to attend a lutte in the village of Toubacouta, which is close to the border of the Gambia. I was so amazed that I forgot to take pictures! I will be showing you photos of my house and traditional Senegalese art, instead.
