The derby is acknowledged as a stiff international sport and a great way to create
awareness of the brisk onset in the desertification of Kenya, while also promoting better camel
husbandry among the people of Kenya
and the benefits of these spitting, kicking yet adorable creatures in arid
environments.
The Derby
takes place at Maralal, Samburu District, centered at Yare Club & Camp,
just four kilometers south of Maralal town on the Nyahururu road. In addition
to the camel races you will also find cycling races, donkey rides for the
timid, darts, different challenge events, local dancing displays and stalls.“Hit ‘em up, move ‘em
out, raw hide” is the theme of this awe-inspiring annual event
which is a blend of culture, colour, action, adventure and the finest camels of
the north.
The derby, which has been running since 1990 attracts entries from
America, Australia, New Zealand, England, Canada, Spain, France, Japan, and
South Africa to mention but a few, who gang up to compete against the reigning
Kenyan Champions. The camels
are chosen by judges for these races depending on handlers, strength and
potential for speed. It is not a surprise to find a camel get up to 25 km an
hour when racing.
The camel races are broken into two main events over a number of
days. The first - Novices and Amateurs
is for those who wish to ‘spectate’ in style. It is a 10km race where you hire
a camel and handler for the day, saddle up and join in the furious hairy ride.
The PRO’s Elite Camel race is next, a 42km marathon over a measured
distance, passing the Maralal
Township and running
through semi-desert environments.
No handlers or assistants are allowed to be used;
you’re left to the mercy
of the desert and your own devices or imagination. Its just fun and adventure
of untold magnitude! The experts say, “The derby is a mecca for adventurers, nomads and camels alike set in
the spell binding country of Kenya!”
It is also voted one of the Kenya’s
most exciting events.
The derby started as a fun event to promote this little
known gem of a place, Maralal, in Northern Kenya
while at the same time seeking to raise awareness of the camel, its habitat and
the people who live there – the Samburu community. It has since grown to an
international event attracting contestants from all over the globe. Most people
choose to camp, and bring the kids to enjoy cycling, horse riding and more.
Welcome to the Derby
and Hit ‘em up!
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