Pack Burro Racing History
The Legends Behind Pack Burro Racing
Like many traditions of the American West, the true origins of pack burro racing have become intertwined with stories passed down through generations.
One popular legend tells of two miners who discovered the same mining claim at the same time. To establish ownership, they had to race back to town to file their claim first. Because their burros were already loaded with essential mining equipment—including a pickaxe, shovel, and gold pan—the miners had no choice but to run alongside their animals on the journey back.
Another well-known story suggests that the sport began when two miners, while sharing drinks in a local saloon, challenged one another to a race to the summit of Mosquito Pass and back.
As mining declined, struggling mining towns turned to pack burro racing as a way to attract tourists, generate revenue, and breathe new life into their communities.
Whether these stories are fact or folklore, they reflect the rich mining heritage and rugged spirit that continue to define pack burro racing today.
Celebrating Colorado's Summer Heritage Sport and World Donkey Day
On May 8, 2012, pack burro racing was officially recognized as Colorado's Summer Heritage Sport. Interestingly, May 8 also happens to be World Donkey Day.
This shared date gives us an even greater reason to celebrate the remarkable animals at the heart of our sport. Donkeys have played an essential role throughout human history, serving as hardworking and dependable partners in agriculture, transportation, mining, and everyday life.
Today, we honor their strength, resilience, intelligence, and the countless ways they continue to enrich our lives.
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The future
Pack burro racing is a unique and unconventional sport enjoyed by a dedicated community of runners and burro owners who share a passion for preserving this historic tradition. While participation was once limited to a relatively small group, interest in the sport has grown significantly in recent years.
The popularity of Christopher McDougall's book Running with Sherman has helped introduce pack burro racing to a much wider audience, contributing to an increase in both the number of races held each year and the number of participants at those events (and spectators).
What began as a sport found exclusively in Colorado has expanded throughout the West, with races now taking place in California, New Mexico, and Arizona. The tradition has even reached states outside the West, including Tennessee and Massachusetts.
Perhaps the most exciting development has been the growing involvement of families. Younger runners are now joining the sport ensuring that this uniquely American tradition will continue to be passed down to future generations.
Throughout this growth, the Pack Burro Racing Photographers have remained committed to preserving the history, heritage, and spirit of the sport. Their images document not only the races themselves, but also the stories, traditions, relationships, and unforgettable moments that make pack burro racing one of the most distinctive sporting traditions in the American West.