A buffalo owned by Dao Minh Thiet (above) chases a rival at the Do Son Buffalo Fighting Contest in the northern coastal city of Hai Phong before winning the championship yesterday. Despite the rain, thousands of people flocked to the event, which featured 16 prime beasts in a knock-out competition. All buffaloes were later killed in honour of the Water Genie. Their meat was sold to participants and others. A ceremony was held on Monday night to celebrate the 25th anniversary of the festival, which has been listed as national heritage. — Photo laodong.com