Q Life Magazine Q Magazine (US) May 2016 | Page 53
Qatari Lifestyle: Merging Tradition with Modernity |
Did you know?
Racing camels can reach speeds
up to 40 mph.
| Camel Racing
C
amel racing is a hallmark of Qatari culture.
It remains a prominent attraction today in the
small hamlet of Al Shahaniya, home of Qatar’s popular
camel racetrack. At the Al Shahaniya racetrack, an
hour’s drive from downtown Doha, visitors can view the
fiercely competitive and highly expensive domestic and
international tournaments.
But the tradition has evolved. Now, remote-controlled
jockeys direct the camels on the course in a unique clash
of modern and ancient sport. The small robot jockeys
are clothed in colorful racing silks, riding the lanky
creatures across the sands to the delight of locals and
tourists alike.
The re gular flow of camels to and from the track
during the race season doesn’t quite compare to the
more than 6,000 camels that participated in the Al
Shahaniya festival last year. Prizes included golden and
silver daggers, with the sword of His Highness the Emir
awarded to the winner of the final event: His Highness
the Emir’s Main Race.
| Camel Racing
Although professional camel racing started in Qatar in
1972, the sport is a pillar of tradition, and the racetrack
is a must-see for any Doha visitor.
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