A Race with a Difference

There was once a king who was extremely fond of horse racing. He gathered expert riders to compete, rewarding the owner of the fastest horse with a handsome prize from the royal treasury.

One day, the court jester made a bold proposal: “My lord! For a change, please announce that this time the horse that comes in last will receive the reward.”

The king was skeptical. “Then they will never gather speed. What would be the fun?” he asked.

“Just try it and see,” the jester urged.

Intrigued, the king summoned Raghu and Ramu, two well-known riders, asking them to race with the stipulation that the last horse would be the winner. The riders looked puzzled, unsure of how to proceed. However, the jester whispered some advice to them, and their expressions brightened. They began the race with enthusiasm.

The horses galloped at a speed that matched any previous race, as Raghu, riding Ramu’s horse, pushed to finish quickly. Meanwhile, Ramu rode Raghu’s horse with the same intent. The race was as lively as ever!

After the thrilling contest, the king turned to the jester and asked, “What did you whisper to them?” The jester replied, “I told them to ride each other’s horses!” Following this clever strategy, both riders ensured that their own horses would come last. The king rewarded not only the horse that came in last but also his witty jester, recognizing the fun and excitement of the unconventional race.