Camel race kicks off in NW China's Xinjiang

(ECNS) -- Camels with jockeys on their backs competed in a 2,000-meter race on Thursday in the 10th Traditional Sports Games for Ethnic Minorities in Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region.

A six-year-old camel from Aksu Prefecture, Xinjiang won the second prize. The camel once won the laurel of the camel race in Kalpin County in 2021, according to its owner.

 

It is common for camels to deviate from the tracks and run away, which adds a lot of fun to the race, according to Eskeljan Amat, a camel coach. Camel race showcases speed, strength and herdsman's skills.

It is one of the most striking competitions amid the 10th Traditional Sports Games for Ethnic Minorities in Xinjiang.