Kosmos

Soccer’s fine, but in Mexico and Bhutan, and on the Philippines, many people find other traditional sports even more exciting.

WILD AND WESTERN

Charros, Mexico’s cowboys, demonstrate their prowess with horses before huge audiences. Their charreada, a mix of different equestrian sports, is similar to the U.S. rodeo – and a bone of contention among animal rights activists.

BOW AND ARROW

The local soccer ground is to Germany what the archery range is to Bhutan: Every village, however small, has one, and everyone turns up at competitions. A hit from 140 meters away is celebrated with a traditional victory dance.

CUT AND THRUST

Arnis, better known as Filipino Martial Arts, is the national sport of the Philippines. Not only are hands and feet allowed as weapons, but in some contests also sticks, knives, daggers and swords.