Black Canyon Donkey Derby
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Event Overview
The Black Canyon Donkey Derby is a pack burro race and multi-day community event held at Deep Canyon Ranch in Black Canyon City, Arizona. It is the 6th annual event in 2025, taking place on Saturday, March 14. Participants form a team of one person and one donkey (burro) and complete a trail course together.
Location & Schedule
The race takes place at Deep Canyon Ranch. It is part of a weekend of activities at the ranch from March 14-15, 2025. On race day, registration and a pre-race meeting are held in the morning before the race start.
Other weekend activities include camping (available for a fee), a community dinner, a vendor area, a costume contest, and an obstacle course for donkeys the following day.
Race Details & Rules
Courses: Participants can choose from a 3-mile, 6-mile, or 9-mile course. Entry: All participants must have a donkey. They can either own one or make private arrangements for a rental; no rentals are offered directly by the event.
The core rule is that a team consists of one person and one donkey, which must stay together for the entire race. The runner leads the donkey; riding is not allowed. Each team must have a proper halter and lead rope. The donkey must be led, not driven from behind; "driving" is only to assist in moving the animal, not riding. The donkey is considered part of the team.
The race follows specific rules. The runner must not attach the lead rope to their body. All teams must stay on the designated trail. The donkey must be led; the runner must not ride. The runner must not use tools to control the donkey (e.g., sticks, ropes with knots, or any object that could cause injury). Anyone seen mistreating a donkey will be disqualified.
Participants are responsible for their own safety and that of their donkey. Registration requires signing a waiver. The event is not liable for injuries or accidents.
Courses:
- 3-mile course
- 6-mile course
- 9-mile course
Information for Participants
The event is the 6th annual Derby. It is a pack burro race, a sport connected to mining history. A team (one runner, one donkey) runs or walks the trail together, with the runner leading the animal. Donkeys may carry gear.
Teams must follow the marked trail. The runner must lead their donkey. They cannot leave the animal behind. The event welcomes all participants. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
