Kumoterki and Gazdowska Parade, traditional horse drawn sleigh races of the Tatras

Kumoterki and the Gazdowska Parade, what are they?

How many of you know what Gońba Kumoterska or simply Kumoterki are? Today we will try to introduce you to this remarkably interesting folk spectacle, by the way inscribed on the list of intangible cultural heritage.

What are Kumoterki?

It is nothing other than a race on snow in traditional wooden sleighs drawn by horses, called kumoterki. They are driven by a kumoter and a kumoska dressed in traditional Highlander costumes.

Origins, from baptism to race

The races were originally connected with the ceremony of holy baptism. The kumoter and kumoska are none other than the godparents, chosen by the child’s parents. After the baptism rite, they would get into their richly decorated sleighs (the level of decoration on the sleigh testified, among other things, to wealth or social status) and head to the inn for a feast.

History of the races in the 20th century

The races themselves enjoyed great popularity in the 20th century. They usually preceded international alpine skiing competitions, which is why they gathered crowds of spectators.

The competitions were interrupted during World War II but were revived in the 1970s and continue to this day as part of the Gazdowska Parade.

What does the Gońba Kumoterska involve?

Gońba Kumoterska consists primarily of crossing a few hundred meter section full of obstacles and turns as quickly as possible. Sometimes the sleighs overturn at full speed, but this is accompanied by laughter and general amusement, as the drivers usually get up soaked and covered in snow.

During the parade, the overall appearance and condition of the horses and sleighs is judged, as well as the regional attire of the kumoter and kumoska. Folk costume is also required of the audience, which is why the Gazdowska Parades enjoy great interest among people not connected with Tatra culture.

Skiring and ski skiring, winter sports of the Tatras

After traditional Kumoterki, participants can also compete in skiring, riding skis behind a horse, or ski skiring, where additionally a rider sits on the horse’s back.

You can watch the competitions, for example, in Biały Dunajec on the last Sunday of January (provided weather conditions allow it, of course).