First Annual Maasai Olympics - Part III

This is Part III of III in our series on the First Annual Maasai Olympics.  Click here for Part I, and here for Part II of our adventures at this exciting cultural and community event!

A moran jumps in the high jumping competition, thrilling the assembled crowd.

Last but not least was the final event of the day, the traditional high jump.  With the entire audience clustered around the jumping area the morani (warriors) competing  were initially hard to see, but soon they began jumping so high they were easily visible.  Contested from a standing start, the competition measured how high a jumper could reach with his head.  The bar moved up and up, and soon only a few competitors remained.  After a closely-contested jump-off to determine the medals that was followed with bated breath by the crowd, the final order was determined and the winners celebrated and paraded around the grounds.

Gorgeous, brilliantly-colored shukas and intricate jewelry was worn by nearly all attendees.

During a short break the medals podium was set up and the awards ceremony began.  Guests of honor presented many of the medals and cash prizes, including 2012 Champion of the Earth Samson Parashina of MWCT.

Maasai women in bright kanga looking on at the high jumping competition.

After all the individual awards the team trophies were presented, with Mbirikani pulling ahead at the end of the day to take top position.  Olgulului came second, with Rombo and Kuku behind, but it was Mbirikani was led their whole contingent in a great parade around the competition area.

Two young Maasai warriors strain for a better view of the jumping competitors.

The Olympics concluded with short speeches from the guests of honor emphasizing the value of community efforts and the new traditions formed throughout the 1st Annual Maasai Olympics, and then a meal of nyama choma (roast goat) was shared by all.  All told it was an excellent day, with fierce but respectful competition on all sides, and a great spectacle for all who attended.