Floats

Small floats are carried in rotation by 24 men, whilst most of them are up to 50 bods. Each man carries 50kg, meaning that many weigh as much as a large car. If that wasn't enough, the centre of gravity is usual found about a metre higher than the bearers heads, which is what poses the challenge. Swaying more than minimally is a big no-no. As the float wobbles, the outer people can have their load increased substantially, so the trick is to move slowly. At full speed ahead they place their feet one foot in front of the other, slower than a funeral march. To turn, frequently in a space barely larger than the entire float, they shuffle sideways, half the width of their feet at a time.
Groups of lusty young men in Egyptian headgear can be encountered strategically along the route, ready to jump in and takeover when the cortege halts every 100m or so for a rest. When they stop, they collapse to their knees.Read more