Camel Racing Information

Training Process of Racing :-CamelsCamel training programs for racing purposes differ depending on the region and environment. Camels begin training when they are approximately 13 months old until they reach the age of 3 and begin racing. For the purpose of this site, Gulf region training techniques will be focused on.

Obedience Training

At the age of 13 to 16 months, the camel is taken from its mother and attached by rope to an older camel to act as a steadying companion to the young camel throughout the short training period of 1 to 3 months. The 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. Already at this stage, trainers accustom their camels to having a young rider on their backs and take them to run on the racetrack.

Fitness Training

The program begins in early July for weaker camels and the stronger ones being in late August. The camels are taken out for 20-kilometer walks in the desert in the early mornings and are brought back before midday. They are fed, watered, and allowed to rest in the shade until their 3 PM water and snack.

In October, the walking distance is changed and increased to 40-kilometers and the camels receive food during their outing. Between 4 - 6 PM, they return and receive their evening meal.

The purpose-oriented daily walking is aimed at reducing the camel's fat, increasing fitness, and making the camel more trim.

Running Training

The camel's running training program begins in early November. Intense training takes place on the major racetracks, coinciding with the preliminary races of the season that last until the end of January. At the end of the racing sessions, running practice takes place on the tracks with 5 to 10 camels starting together at a time to prevent injuries. Running distances are decided by each trainer on an individual basis according to the type of races each camel is being trained for. This way, the camel adjusts to running over specific distances.

The food diet during this period changes to become very nutritious and rich foods, such as barley, dates, goat's milk, and honey in order to compensate for the greater energy output of the camel.

Two months before the race, camels that are seen to have the greatest potential for winning also receive greater medical attention in terms of more frequent checkups and better healthcare against dirt, pests, and weather elements.

Stomach Purging

Two days before the race, the camel's stomach is purged. After this has been done, the camels are covered with special blankets and are taken to be washed. Water and a light meal are fed to them before being covered again and having a special hood placed over their mouths to prevent further food consumption. The next day is then spent resting and fasting until the time of the race.

The Important Characteristics of Racing Camels>>