Also known as The Ships of the desert, Camels have been a very important factor in the life of the people in the desert. Camels were a symbol of prosperity in olden days. The existence of Bedouins was dependent on camels and they showed affection towards camels. Sultan Qaboos made a strategy which included both tradition and urbanization. He ensured that the Omani tradition is preserved and at the same time there shall be no compromise on development and urbanization. Royal Camel corps were also set by the Sultan which gives the required care and supervision of private camels. It also imparts training to the camels and plays an important role in popularizing Camel racing.
Camel racing is a very popular event in Oman where camels compete with each other at the speed of more than 60 kilometers per hour. The sport is strikingly similar to the horse racing. Camel racing has turned into an official racing event which includes proper race tracks, dedicated farms for raising camels and training them and the latest technologies.
Few preparations are made before the event. Meetings are held where all the issues related to camel racing are raised and discussed. Some other competitions are held for example last year camel milk and beauty competitions were also held along with the actual race. The event is covered and broadcasted in both television and radio platforms.
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Sultan Qaboos organized the annual camel racing festival in order to preserve the true Omani tradition and the Omani breed of camels. Different wilayats can participate in the event. The race is usually conducted for two days. Depending on the age of Camel around twelve rounds happen on the first day and the real race happens the following day which includes five rounds. Only Omani people can participate in the camel racing and the camel should be of Omani origin too. The winners are awarded with cash and even cars. These festivals surely boost the tourism in Oman. Once a tradition, Camel racing in Oman has become an important competitive professional sport which attracts thousands of fans from all over the world.
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