URUMQI, July 8 (Xinhua) -- The 12th National Traditional Games of Ethnic Minorities of China began its equestrian events on Monday in Zhaosu, Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region.

The equestrian events, the earliest to begin in this year's Ethnic Games, will run through July 13. This edition featured the largest number of participating teams ever, with 229 athletes from 12 delegations.

The competition includes both contest and exhibition events. The contest events feature traditional ethnic horse racing, horseback archery, hada snatching and individual biathlon. Exhibition categories are divided into competitive, technical and comprehensive performances.

In the 2,000-meter traditional ethnic horse racing, Tashi Phuntsok from Xizang Autonomous Region crossed the finish line first.

"I am honored to compete here, and engage with riders from different regions and ethnicities," he said. "I've prepared for this competition for four years, and I'm pleased to have performed to my potential."

The 12th National Traditional Games of Ethnic Minorities of China will take place from November 22 to 30 in Sanya, Hainan.