The dawn brought a peaceful day of rest at Mar Lodj on Sunday, May 25. When evening came we were invited to a neighboring village for Lutte sénégalaise, a traditional folk wrestling. In the complete dark of night, we crossed the island in kind of a Senegalese sleigh ride through dusty fields and forest. Thankfully, our horses knew the way in the dark, as there are no street lamps or lights to follow. We came upon an electrically charged atmosphere of musical chanting, drums, and hundreds of villagers. It is truly a community event. Wrestlers work hard to build up their athletic strength and ability, but not uncommonly turn in the end to the "magic tonics" of a marabou insuring their chances of victory. Lutte is no respecter of persons and even prominent visitors would be encouraged to participate. Transcending all cultural barriers, our own GC team was suited up (or down in this case) for a match with the locals.

Be sure to watch the video of our own star wrestler, Chase, from "team GC," for a better look into the atmosphere.