A Senegalese Wrestler Trains to Become the ‘King of the Arena’ | Short Film Showcase

In this west African country, wrestling is not just a sport, but a chance at a better life. ➡ Subscribe: ➡ Get More Short Film Showcase: #NationalGeographic #Wrestling #ShortFilmShowcase About Short Film Showcase: The Short Film Showcase spotlights exceptional short videos created by filmmakers from around the web and selected by National Geographic editors. We look for work that affirms National Geographic’s belief in the power of science, exploration, and storytelling to change the world. The filmmakers created the content presented, and the opinions expressed are their own, not those of National Geographic Partners. See more from National Geographic’s Short Film Showcase at Get More National Geographic: Official Site: Facebook: Twitter: Instagram: Almost half of Senegal’s population lives below the poverty line, but young men like Domou Walo are fighting for a better life. In the country’s capital of Dakar, Walo trains for La lutte or Laamb, Senegal’s traditional form of wrestling. The sport has been practiced since the 14th century and includes elements of mysticism. Top contenders regularly compete for prestige and six figure prizes. Filmmaker Tom Sweetland captures the athleticism, ritual, violence, and brotherhood that underpins the sport, where the young challengers train to improve their family’s lot in a country where many survive on an average income of only $10 a day. Follow filmmaker Tom Sweetland: See more from Clouded Vision: About National Geographic: National Geographic is the world’s premium destination for science, exploration, and adventure. Through their world-class scientists, photographers, journalists, and filmmakers, Nat Geo gets you closer to the stories that matter and past the edge of what’s possible. A Senegalese Wrestler Trains to Become the ‘King of the Arena’ | Short Film Showcase National Geographic