Pyongyang, August 22 (KCNA) -- The 9th National Ssirum (Korean wrestling) Tournament for Grand Bull Prize will take place on Rungna Islet in Pyongyang from August 24 to 26.

The annual event attracts increasing public interest in the DPRK.

Pyongyang citizens won the first six tournaments but Ri Jo Won from North Phyongan Province took the prize in the last two tournaments.

If Ri wins this year's tournament, too, the gold cowbell will go to him for his three-game winning streak.

He is considered one of the most hopefuls.

All provinces and municipalities will send their best players to Pyongyang for the Grand Bull Prize.

The grand bull weighs nearly one metric ton.