Crown Prince Hosts Camel Racing Festival With Over SAR50M Prize

Post by : Mumtaaz Qadiri

Under the patronage of His Royal Highness Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, the Crown Prince and Prime Minister of Saudi Arabia, the seventh edition of the Crown Prince Camel Festival concluded successfully yesterday. This festival is one of the most important cultural and sports events in the country. It celebrates camel racing, a traditional sport that is deeply rooted in Saudi heritage. The festival attracts participants, fans, and officials from all over Saudi Arabia, showing the nation’s pride in its cultural and sporting traditions.

Venue and Organization

The festival took place at the Taif camel racing field, a well-known location for camel races in Saudi Arabia. The event was organized by Saudi Camel Sports, which ensures that the races are conducted professionally and fairly. Thousands of people attended the festival over several days, including families, tourists, and racing enthusiasts. The venue was fully prepared with all the necessary facilities to host elite camels and their trainers, creating an exciting environment for both participants and spectators.

Exciting Races and Competitions

The final day of the festival featured four thrilling races, each covering a distance of six kilometers. About 100 top-level camels participated, demonstrating speed, stamina, and excellent training. The races were highly competitive, and each camel and its trainer worked hard to secure a victory. The spectators enjoyed cheering for their favorite camels, creating a lively atmosphere. The festival is not only a competition but also a celebration of the skills and traditions passed down through generations in Saudi Arabia.

High Prize Pool

The total prize pool for the festival exceeded SAR50 million. This large sum reflects the significance of camel racing in Saudi Arabia and the dedication of both participants and organizers. The prize money also attracts elite camels and professional trainers from across the country, increasing the competition level and making the event even more exciting. Financial rewards help preserve the sport and encourage more people to take part in it, ensuring that camel racing remains a vibrant tradition.

Deputy Governor Honors Winners

Prince Saud bin Mishaal bin Abdulaziz, the Deputy Governor of Makkah Region, attended the closing ceremony. He personally crowned the winners of the festival, recognizing their hard work and dedication. His presence highlighted the importance of the event and the support of regional authorities for traditional sports. Crowning the winners was a special moment for the participants, adding prestige and honor to their achievement. It also reinforced the cultural and social value of camel racing in Saudi society.

Minister of Sport’s Appreciation

Prince Abdulaziz bin Turki bin Faisal, the Minister of Sport, expressed his sincere appreciation to HRH the Crown Prince for his continuous support and generous patronage. He stated that the Crown Prince’s involvement shows a strong commitment to promoting sports in Saudi Arabia, especially traditional sports like camel racing. Such support ensures that cultural sports are preserved, celebrated, and promoted to younger generations and the wider public.

Crown Prince’s Support for Heritage

The Minister highlighted that HRH the Crown Prince has a special interest in camel racing because it represents an important part of Saudi culture and history. His patronage is a way to encourage athletes, trainers, and fans to continue participating in traditional sports. The Crown Prince’s support also sends a message that Saudi Arabia values its cultural identity and works actively to preserve and promote it through modern platforms and organized events.

Tribute to Athletes and Fans

Prince Abdulaziz also noted that the festival serves as a tribute to both the athletes and fans of camel racing. Athletes spend months training camels, focusing on their health, stamina, and speed. Fans, on the other hand, follow the races passionately and support their favorite camels and trainers. By organizing such festivals, Saudi Arabia strengthens the bond between cultural heritage, sports, and public engagement, ensuring that traditional practices continue to thrive in a modern society.

Ceremony Highlights

The closing ceremony was filled with excitement, celebration, and recognition. Officials, dignitaries, and sports enthusiasts gathered to witness the final races and honor the champions. The Deputy Governor’s crowning of the winners was a memorable highlight, symbolizing the success and prestige of the festival. The event showcased Saudi Arabia’s commitment to combining modern organization with traditional sports, creating a professional and enjoyable experience for everyone involved.

Importance of Camel Racing

Camel racing is not just a sport in Saudi Arabia; it is a reflection of the country’s culture and traditions. Events like the Crown Prince Camel Festival preserve these traditions and promote them to a wider audience. By hosting organized races with elite camels, Saudi Arabia ensures that traditional sports maintain their relevance in the modern era. The festival also encourages tourism, attracts media attention, and educates the public about the cultural significance of camel racing.

Encouraging Future Generations

The festival inspires younger generations to take an interest in camel racing and other traditional sports. By providing a professional platform and significant rewards, the event encourages participation and ensures the continuation of these cultural practices. Schools, families, and local communities often get involved, helping to maintain a connection with heritage and fostering pride in national traditions.

Saudi Sports Development

The Crown Prince Camel Festival is part of a broader effort by Saudi Arabia to promote sports across the country. The government’s support for traditional and modern sports helps develop athletes, improve training facilities, and organize world-class events. These initiatives not only preserve cultural heritage but also position Saudi Arabia as a leading country in the global sports community. Camel racing, in particular, highlights the country’s unique traditions while contributing to national pride and community engagement.

The seventh Crown Prince Camel Festival was a successful event that combined culture, sport, and celebration. With HRH the Crown Prince’s patronage, a total prize pool of over SAR50 million, and the participation of elite camels and trainers, the festival honored Saudi Arabia’s heritage while promoting the sports sector. It brought together athletes, fans, and officials, creating a memorable experience and ensuring that camel racing remains a cherished tradition for future generations.

Camel racing event, Saudi cultural heritage, Crown Prince support, Taif sports festival