Camel Training

This picture was taken at the camel race track. These camels have just finished their race training for the day.

Some information on camel racing:
Camels begin training when they are approximately 13 months old until they reach the age of 3 and begin racing. Early training involves learning to wear the 'al khidham' rope that is tied around the camel's head to control its movements and the 'al shidad' saddle, which is a soft, blanket saddle

Race distances vary between 4 to 10 kilometers and may include anywhere from 15 to 70 camels or more. Two days before the race, the camel's stomach is purged. The next day is then spent resting and fasting until the time of the race. At the top, the owners employ nutritionists, feeders, jockeys, drivers, groomers, cleaners, shepherds, and trainers.

The local breed, known as 'al mahaliyat', colored brown.
Sudanese camels, known as 'al Sudaniyat', which are larger, faster, and white.
A mixed-breed, known as 'al muhajanat', which is a mix of the first two.

Sheikhs have been known to buy camels from owners who have won the afternoon races, offering large sums of money to acquire the victorious camel. The more pictures are on the sidebar under Photo Albums.