KUNA photo A winner hoists the trophy as officials look on.

KUWAIT CITY, Feb 8, (KUNA): The 24th annual Kuwait International Camel Racing Championship kicked off, featuring strong participation from camel owners across Kuwait and other Arab countries.

The six-day event was inaugurated by Bashar Abdullah, Acting Director General of the Public Authority for Sports (PAS), at the Martyr Fahad Al-Ahmad track of the Kuwait Camel Racing Club.

Abdullah told KUNA that he was proud to open a championship that reflects a rich heritage, with the sport’s popularity extending from Kuwait to the Gulf and internationally. He wished all participants success in achieving strong results.

Meanwhile, Kuwait Camel Racing Club President Hussein Al-Dawas told KUNA that Kuwaiti camels delivered outstanding performances on the first day, signaling a competitive championship ahead. He also expressed gratitude to state authorities for their support in facilitating the event

The opening day featured 21 of the 78 scheduled races, all dedicated to young camels competing over a distance of four kilometers.