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Crossing Continents: Senegal

Senegal

23/12/2010

BBC Radio 4 - Crossing Continents, Senegal

David Goldblatt examines Senegalese wrestling; Africa's sporting spectacular.

David Goldblatt examines the growth of Senegalese wrestling, from traditional rural ritual to commercial urban spectacular.

It is called "Laamb" or "La Lutte Sénégalaise". Originating in the countryside as a test of strength for farmers and fishermen, Senegalese wresting moved to the city with the migrants. It took on punching to become "La Lutte avec frappe". It involves special charms, singers, drummers and excited crowds, with the champions now earning huge amounts of money. In Crossing Continents David Goldblatt examines how wrestling has become Senegal's most popular sport, deposing even football.
Producer: John Murphy.

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