Chicken race winner crowned at Lithuania's 'Border Fiesta'

Lazdijai, Lithuania, hosted a peculiar and entertaining event on Saturday: traditional chicken races, a highlight of the annual "Border Fiesta" festival. This year, the races saw 16 feathered competitors vying for the coveted Golden Egg Cup and a 500 euro cash prize.

The unique competition involved a 10-meter-long tunnel constructed from wire mesh. At one end, a chicken was placed in a cage, and its "trainer" on the other side aimed to guide it through the tunnel to a second cage. The goal was simple: get the chicken to run through the corridor as quickly as possible.

Owners could rent a "sporting" bird for 30 euros to participate. The races proceeded in heats, with the faster chicken and its owner advancing to the next stage. This year, organizers modified the rules following concerns from animal rights advocates, prohibiting trainers from encouraging the birds by slapping the mesh. This change meant some less motivated chickens remained at the starting line, while others required the audience's help when they escaped their trainers.

Ultimately, Ligita and Miglė from the town of Šeštokai emerged victorious with their chicken, "Stabdžių Našlė" (Brake Mare), which outpaced all rivals in the final against "Čikoleta." The winning duo took home the trophy and the substantial cash prize. The owners of the third-place chicken, "Aršiosios trenerės" (Fierce Trainers), received a kayaking trip.

While concerts and parades are common at many festivals, the chicken races remain a unique attraction exclusive to Lazdijai's "Border Fiesta," making it a memorable and quirky event for attendees.