(ANSA) - Siena - Two jockeys injured in Siena's famous Palio race left hospital on Sunday, with concussion, fractures and bruising.
The two fell from their horses during the chaotic and controversial race, which was won by bookies' choice, the Bruco contrada (Caterpillar district).
Jockeys are frequently injured during the no-holds-barred bareback race, and mounts sometimes have to be put down.
The Bruca victory by Luigi Bruschelli, known as Treccicolino, marks his ninth overall win and the third with the same horse, matching the record of the legendary Sardinian jockey, Andrea De Gortes, who performed the same feat in the 1970s.
Il Palio, meaning banner, dates back to the 13th century and takes place each year on July 2 and August 16. Jockeys from ten of Siena's 17 contrade compete for the silk prize in the 90-second bareback race around the city's main square, the Piazza del Campo.
The only rule in the competition is that the jockeys, or fantini, mustn't grab the reins of their adversaries. That means whipping a rival's horse or even knocking a jockey off his steed is allowed.
Victory goes to the first horse to complete three laps of the square, even if it arrives at the finishing post without a rider.
The colourful, chaotic bareback race in Siena's main square attracts thousands of visitors to the Tuscan town each year.
But animal rights activists have long campaigned to get the event banned, saying it is cruel, has little to do with sporting skill and is dangerous for the horses, jockeys and spectators. Nearly 50 horses have died on the course since 1970.
