National Gallop poised to boost Hungary's image

0 Comments | AFP, June, 2008

BUDAPEST (AFP) — A centuries-old tradition of moustachoed horsemen in ornate coats is set to boost Hungary's image and provide it with a new icon to attract Hungarians and tourists alike.

Hungarian Hussars -- a strong and highly-trained light cavalry formation developed under King Matthias I Corvinus in the late 15th century -- were honoured this weekend in Budapest in a first-ever National Gallop that organisers hope will become a signature event.

Reputed as womanising adventurers, the colourfully dressed hussars with their thick moustaches proved successful early on against Turks, Bohemians and Poles adversaries.

But as horses became obsolete on the battlefield, so did the hussars, and today cavalry soldiers on horseback play but a representative role in...