Amid the swirling sand and colorful Bedouin tents, more than 6,000 spectators gathered to watch the surprisingly nimble camels race in the Negev Highlands during Israel’s first legal camel race on Friday, November 1.
A traditional and highly popular sport across the Middle East, camel racing is beloved among Israel’s Bedouin community. Bedouin of different tribes from the north and the south of Israel traveled to take part in the historic event, alongside Jewish residents from nearby communities who also came to watch.
“A great happiness has descended upon the Negev since this event. There is a new feeling in the desert air,” said organizer Adel Walidie of the Israel Camel Riders Forum, an organization that includes camel riders from the Bedouin community, as well as Jewish enthusiasts. (Read More)
