Today's Edition
KUUMAR SHYAM (ABU DHABI)
The sandy tracks in Al Marmoom are set to witness a historic conclusion to the racing season as the C1 Championship returns for its Season 5 finale on Sunday.
The event represents a defining moment for a sport that remains a cornerstone of the UAE' cultural identity, bringing together international athletes and the local community in a celebration of heritage and competitive spirit.
Founded by Linda Krockenberger through the Arabian Desert Camel Riding Centre in Dubai, the C1 Championship holds the distinction of being the world's first all-female camel racing series. Since its inception, the UAE-based initiative has sought to honour traditional Emirati values while broadening participation.
Over five seasons, it has evolved into a structured pathway for riders of all backgrounds and is currently the only independent, multi-stage series sanctioned by the Dubai Camel Racing Club.
The rising popularity saw an addition this season of a new category for boys aged 15 and over. This expansion, coupled with a prize pool exceeding 80,000 dirhams – the largest ever for an independent camel racing festival – underlines the growing stature of the championship amid camel lovers.
It is also an endorsement of sorts for those keen to follow UAE's culture and heritage that the event is a key attraction for visiting tourists with the Big Bus operators collaborating for this Championship.
The international appeal of the sport is also reflected in this year's diverse roster of competitors. Jockeys from the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Jordan, and Qatar have been joined by riders from as far afield as Denmark, Poland, France, the United Kingdom, and Germany. Despite this global reach, the championship remains an intimate community fixture, consistently drawing thousands of spectators to the trackside.
Krockenberger noted that the championship has always aimed to honour the past while making the sport accessible to a wider demographic. She remarked that seeing the community come together to support a sport that carries such deep history and pride is particularly meaningful, especially during times that encourage reflection and togetherness.
The competitive stakes for the finale remain exceptionally high and could not come at a better time. In the Women's 1200m Championship, the standings are separated by the narrowest of margins.
Denmark's Laura Jurs currently leads the table with 37 points, followed closely by Emirati rider Fatima Al Ameri on 36 points. Defending champion Rawan Salah of Jordan remains a mathematical contender with 25 points, ensuring a tense final race.
In the boys' category, Rashid Al Kaabi holds a commanding lead with 39 points, ahead of Ali Al Khatri and Sultan Al Ketbi. Spectators reaching for the finale can expect a comprehensive cultural experience starting from 4pm, if the weather does not play spoilsport.
With rains forecast for early this week and the Dubai Crown Prince Endurance Festival getting cancelled on Monday as a result, there is an element of doubt. It it goes ahead as planned, it will be welcome news in more ways than one with many events getting cancelled already due to the geopolitical conflict in the Middle East.
Meanwhile, in addition to the trackside action, the event village will offer traditional refreshments such as complimentary luqaimat. Families can also participate in a raffle with prizes including the latest technology, or opt for elevated viewing via a mobile platform.
While general admission remains free to the public, organisers have advised that they continue to monitor weather conditions and will not hesitate from rescheduling the finale, if necessary, to ensure the safety of all participants.
