Camel racing is a desert extravaganza organized in the Northern territory, the least populated region in the area. The iconic and breath-taking event attracts thousands of tourists from all over the world. The quirky event organized annually is often laced with dusty rides in the desert areas of Australia.
- History of the Camel Race Event
The pioneer Camel Race was run in 1970 and acted as a bonus attraction at the Alice Springs Celebration. Over the years, the race has gained popularity attracting tourists from every corner of this globe. It has since been marked as an annual event organized in the Northern Territory of Australia. Other nations have been able to start a similar event in their own territories. A significant case study is America which has successfully practiced this event in their own Virginia City.
- Location of the Event
The event is usually organized in Blatherskite Park, Alice Springs. This is situated in the northern Territory of Australia. The location is suitable because of its scarce population. The small population in this area is a very important factor in considering the location of the event as it ensures that there is no public interference as well as giving the racist adequate space for a comfortable and most fulfilling race. The Camels are often found in deserted areas; another reason as to why the event is organized in this area of Australia.
- Timing of the Event
The race is usually organized in July of every year. The reason behind this specific timing is however unclear. It is speculated that the timing is due to the fact that this timing favors most people who choose to go on holiday during this time as it is summer.
- Transport to the Racing Venue
Free shuttle buses are provided to ferry tourists to the venue of the event. Usually, scheduled timetable is provided to act as a guidance for the visitors and the participants. The timetable outlines the departure times from the various points where the participants are to be picked.
- About The Race
The race attracts couples on honeymoon, individuals thirsty for a refreshing holiday in Australia as well as groups on a holiday. The family event involves two people sitting on the camel and two runners pulling them to the half-waypoint. After the half-waypoint, the participants swap; with the pullers becoming the pulled. This basically men that each team should consist of four participants. The number of groups registering for the event is limited so as not to kill the fun of the game. Entry to the event is absolutely free and there are prizes for the winners.
Couples on honeymoon also have a chance to enjoy the frenzy of the game. In this case, the bridegroom rides the camel but stops midway to pick his bride. More often than not, the proceeds from the racing event is distributed to charities to help the disadvantaged groups in the society. For international visitors who want to visit this world event, they will have to acquire an Australian visa which acts as a permit to visit Australia.
Ruby Andrew’s author bio
Ruby Andrew lives in Bristol, UK and is an avid reader and blogger. Since her early years she’s had a passion for writing. Her articles have been published in leading UK newspapers. Her areas of interest are food, reviews (Book/Movie), Travel, Fashion, and Lifestyle. She works as a guest blogger on her chosen areas of interest and currently writes on behalf of Australian visas.