Tradition Lives On in the Heart of the Carpathians
In the rolling hills of Barcani, nestled deep within Covasna County’s lush green landscape, tradition thundered back to life with the pounding hooves of mighty draft horses. On a bright summer day, surrounded by forests and the hum of an excited crowd, Romania once again celebrated one of its most beloved rural spectacles: “Proba de Dublu” — the Double Draft Horse Trial.
Far more than just a contest of strength, this annual event pays tribute to the country’s rich agricultural past, showcasing not only the raw power of Romania’s iconic working horses but also the deep bond between human and animal.
A Rustic Arena Set in Nature’s Embrace
Barcani is an ideal stage for such a powerful tradition. With open fields bordered by wooden fences and watched over by pine-covered hills, the setting itself seems untouched by time. Villagers, farmers, tourists, and horse lovers alike gathered on grassy slopes and behind fences, eager to witness a test of strength, discipline, and teamwork.
Children sat on hay bales, vendors sold handmade crafts and local cheese, and the entire village buzzed with pride. For one day, Barcani wasn’t just a quiet town in the Carpathians — it was the beating heart of Romania’s working horse culture.
The Challenge: What is the Double Horse Trial?
The Double Draft Horse Trial pits teams of two horses against a heavy wooden sled — often loaded with logs or weights — which they must drag across uneven terrain. The objective? To move the weight a certain distance using nothing but muscle, coordination, and the guidance of their handlers.
But it’s not just about who can pull the heaviest load the fastest. Judges and spectators also look for synchronization, handler control, teamwork, and the wellbeing of the horses. This is a test of balance — brute force tempered by patience and strategy.
When Strength Meets Skill
As the event unfolded, teams from across the region took turns showcasing their horses. Many featured breeds known for draft work — Belgian Drafts, Ardennes, and Romanian Coldbloods — their massive bodies built for hauling and heavy labor. These horses are not just showpieces; they are working animals with years of experience pulling timber in forests and carts through villages.
Handlers — often farmers or generational horsemen — walked beside or behind the team, guiding them with verbal commands, gestures, or soft whistles. It was evident that success depended on more than just size. Horses had to move together in rhythm, responding to subtle cues, trusting the people who trained them.
The most impressive teams didn’t just pull — they glided. Logs slid across the earth like feathers when the bond between handler and horse was strong. The crowd responded to each successful pull with loud cheers and clapping, celebrating every effort.
A Community Tradition with Deep Roots
What makes the Barcani-Covasna Draft Horse Trial so special isn’t just the event itself — it’s the community behind it. Locals treat the day like a festival. Entire families attend, wearing traditional clothing, sharing stories of past trials, and celebrating their heritage.
Young people volunteer to help manage the event, gaining a deeper appreciation for their roots. Elder villagers watch with pride, some recalling the days when horses like these were the main source of labor before tractors arrived.
And then there are the children, eyes wide, watching in amazement as these colossal animals thunder by. For them, this is more than just a show — it’s a lesson in history, effort, and respect for animals.
Emotion and Excellence
One of the day’s most emotional moments came when a smaller team of horses — seemingly underdogs — struggled to move the logs on their first attempt. The crowd went quiet. The handler whispered calmly to the pair, walked them gently back, and tried again. This time, they moved forward, inch by inch, until the weight began to roll. The applause that followed wasn’t just for the effort — it was for the heart.
Moments like this defined the day. It wasn’t only about who won, but about the courage and trust shown in every attempt.
Why It Matters Today
As Romania modernizes, events like this serve as vital reminders of where the nation comes from. They honor hard work, animal care, and the role these magnificent horses have played in building and sustaining rural life.
At the same time, the Barcani competition is evolving. Organizers now emphasize horse welfare, safe handling techniques, and education for younger generations. This is not about exploiting animals — it’s about respect, legacy, and connection.
The Spirit Lives On
As the sun dipped behind the forested hills and the last team completed their pull, spectators lingered, not wanting the day to end. The horses were untethered and gently led back to their trailers, their work done and their legacy honored.
The Double Draft Horse Trial of Barcani-Covasna remains a proud symbol of Romanian identity — where power meets grace, and heritage gallops boldly into the future.