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SARGA.CO – Behind the stunning natural beauty of Payakumbuh lies a historic arena that has been the heartbeat of horse-riding tradition in the Minangkabau region. Its name is Kubu Gadang Horse Racing Track, located in West Payakumbuh, Payakumbuh City, West Sumatra. For the Minangkabau people, this is more than a racing field—it is a cultural heritage, a symbol of prestige, and a stage for inter-nagari rivalries.
The track has stood proudly since 1906, making it one of the oldest horse racing arenas in Indonesia. At the time, horse racing was not only a sport but also elite entertainment during the colonial era, which the local Minang people later adopted and transformed into a lasting cultural tradition.
With a 900-meter-long and 12-meter-wide track, Kubu Gadang was built according to the standards of its era—spacious, strategic, and able to accommodate thousands of spectators. Its location in Kubu Gadang, North Payakumbuh, makes it accessible from various parts of West Sumatra.
"Every race uses an 8-horse starting gate. The track surface is flat, so the horses can sprint at full speed. But jockeys need precision, especially in the final stretch of about 200 meters from the last turn to the finish line," said Faullo Rosie, Daily Chairperson of PORDASI West Sumatra, in an interview with SARGA.CO.
Over time, horse racing in Payakumbuh evolved from mere entertainment into an annual cultural ritual rich with meaning. Each race at Kubu Gadang becomes an Alek Nagari—a community festival that brings together breeders, jockeys, vendors, officials, and traditional leaders.
Moreover, horse racing is also a competition of prestige among stables and horse owners, who prepare their best horses to honor their nagari.
A Stage for Achievement and Prestigious Events
The track has never lost its spirit. One of the largest events held here was the Payakumbuh Open Race – Walikota Cup 2022, featuring more than 50 racehorses from various stables. The crowd’s enthusiasm marked a post-pandemic resurgence of horse racing in Payakumbuh.
In addition to the Walikota Cup, the track regularly hosts local and regional events, including championship series involving cities and districts across West Sumatra.
Enduring and Evolving
Despite being over a century old, Kubu Gadang Track continues to be maintained and developed. The Payakumbuh City government, along with horse racing communities and local traditional groups, is committed to preserving its existence.
Track revitalization, grandstand construction, and supporting facilities are all part of efforts to ensure the arena remains active not only for sports but also as a cultural tourism destination.
Horse racing in Minangkabau is not merely about speed. It represents a blend of traditional values, courage, honor, and solidarity. Kubu Gadang Track is both a witness and a central player in keeping these values alive.
From the pounding of hooves shaking the earth to the roar of cheering spectators, every moment contributes to the long narrative of Minang culture, rewritten each year on this historic track.
(Various sources)
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