First legal camel race held in Israel with thousands of spectators
Bedouin host says Negev event is symbol for coexistence with Jewish communities: ‘We are here together, and we will stay together and we will live here together, in peace’
Israel’s first-ever legal camel race took place in the south on Friday, with thousands of spectators from across the country descending to the Negev Desert to cheer on the participants.
Spectators came from both the local Bedouin and Jewish communities, with a spirit of coexistence felt at the event, the Ynet news site reported.
“This race was very important for Bedouin society and Jewish society,” Sheikh Mohammed Abudel Al-Walidi told the outlet. “It is important that all the countries surrounding us see this and what we were able to do. I have not been as excited as I am today in a long time.”
Camel races have been held illegally in the Negev for a number of years, with activists raising concerns about the welfare of the animals and the safety of participants.
Friday’s event was held over two distances — 12 kilometers (approximately 7.5 miles) for adult camels and six kilometers (3.7 miles) for the younger animals.
The winners were awarded cash prizes of NIS 12,000 (approximately $3,000), with second place taking home NIS 10,000 ($2,600) and the third place receiving NIS 8,000 ($2,100).
Eran Doron, head of the Ramat Negev Regional Council, told the Walla news site that the regulation of the event was a positive development for the south.
“The race is good news for our region that incorporates a diverse population from across the Israeli spectrum, as it shines a spotlight on the Bedouin tradition and creates an opportunity for cooperation and strengthening the relationships between the communities in the Negev,” he said.
Nawaf Nabari, who hosted the event, said the race was a symbol of hope for the future.
“We are here together, and we will stay together, and we will live here together, in peace,” he said.
