The riders will carry a whip, often in their teeth, to fend off opposing horses and riders.
Riders usually wear heavy clothing and head protection to protect themselves against other players' whips and boots.
It is then soaked in cold water for 24 hours before play to toughen it.
Occasionally sand is packed into the carcass to give it extra weight.
Playing well also requires specially trained horses that sell today for as much as US$10,000-15,000.
Sources:Wikipedia,Reuters,Flickr
