Momentum Towards A Real Recovery: Soma Nomaoi Opens Tomorrow
Like a heroic scene from feudal Japan, the nationally designated cultural event, Soma Nomaoi starts on the 23rd. It is the first Nomaoi Festival to be held since the evacuation orders have been lifted in the Odaka district in Soma City following the nuclear disaster at Fukuhsima Daiichi. Members of the local Odaka Horse-Riding Association have anticipated the opening of the festival, "This is a real opportunity for recovery following the lifting of the evacuation order, we hope to create some momentum with the Nomaoi festival."
On the 23rd, the first day of the festival, riders from each of the 5 districts participate in the Yoinori Race at Higarigahara Field in Haramachi District. On the 24th, the Sacred Flag Competition and the Armed-Horse Race are held at Higarigahara Field. On the final day on the 25th, the Nomakake ritual is held at Odaka Shrine in Odaka District.
Mr. Enei (Odaka District) "No Hesitation"
The riders are in full preparation for the Soma Nomaoi. Construction worker Yoshihide Enei (67), from Odaka District where the evacuation orders have been lifted, has been chosen to carry the portable shrine (omikoshi) as a member of Odaka Horse-Riding Association. Mr. Enei was being very positive, "Now that the evacuation order has been lifted, there are no special restrictions. We don't have to go through the process of preparing somewhere to stay before the event, we can participate without hesitation."
First participating in the festival when he was 29, this is the 30th time that he has taken part in the event. "It's not just me participating, but also my horse. Not just participating, we're going out there to win the event," he said.
Mr.Enei can take care of his horse at home while participating in the event. Even after the nuclear disaster, he always participated and didn't part with his horse. While living in a rental property in Haramachi District, he received special permission in 2014 and 2015 to stay at his home in Odaka District during the event. Now he is living in an apartment in the same district as his home, this year he can participate in the event from home for the first time since the nuclear accident.
Further Information: http://soma-nomaoi.jp/english.htm
Further Information: http://soma-nomaoi.jp/english.htm
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