Jockeys compete in the Yulong International Horse Racing Tournament which opened in Youyu county, Shanxi province, on June 24. [Photo/Xinhua]

Yulong International Horse Racing Tournament, a highlight of the cultural and tourism events program promoted by Shanxi province's Youyu county, opened on June 24.

Jockeys and more than 400 horses from countries including Australia, the United Kingdom, Ireland and China will show off their skills and compete with each other during the 38-day tournament which lasts until Sept 30. The total prize money for the competition amounts to 15 million yuan ($2.19 million).

Yulong International Horse Racing Tournament, China's only professional horse racing tournament following international standards, aims to promote the sport in China as well as the culture and tourism of Youyu county.

The opening tournament on June 24 consisted of six races of 1,000, 1,200 and 1,800 meters, with 31 jockeys from across China and 57 horses taking part.