Donkey Derby - Donkey Racing

Watch A Donkey Race In Action


Donkey Derby Racing

The Donkey (equus asinus) Derby races exist, not run very fast, but the race exists, I have raced in a donkey race just outside Yarmouth racecourse. OK, it was 22 years ago while on holiday with my parents. I came last, in fact the donkey I was riding stopped running to chew some grass. As my silly ass stooped it's neck to grab a mouthfull of greenery, I nearly went arse over tit, I am no jockey. I came last, in fact I did not finish the course, I jumped off when every other runner had long finished the race.

Donkey racing is better known as "The Donkey Derby". Donkey races and rides at the seaside used to be very popular in Great Britain, but since the demise of the British seaside due to the Costa Brava style holidays and cheap airfair, the donkey is not seen at the seaside very much these days. I'd hazard a guess the donkey derby is not run at Yarmouth anymore, who knows?

The Recommended Donkey Derby Course
The donkey racecourse should be horseshoe in shape, or straight and be 100-150 yards (90-140 metres) in length.

The minimum width of the donkey derby racing course should be calculated by allowing one yard for each of the donkeys running together in the competition, plus one yard intervals between each, and also between the side barriers and the donkeys running on the left and right extremeties (outside lanes) of the course.

  • 7 donkeys - 15 yards (13.5 metres)
  • 8 donkeys - 17 yards (15.3 metres)

Competetive Donkey Racing
Donkey Racing is quite popular in the Caribbean. Various Donkey Derbies (and goats) are run at various Caribbean festivals. Maybe they even bet on the donkeys & goats there, I do not know. I would be surprised if there were a race going on with no odds on offer for wagering purposes.

In Pakistan, donkeys are raced towing carts. Quite a popular sport, or so I read. The Pakistani donkey and cart racing jockeys are adults, but are not heavy-set men weighing in at 14 stone.

In Great Britain, there are "Donkey Derby" guidelines. Adults are not generally allowed to ride donkeys at amusement parks or seafront beaches. The recommended age is 9-15 years of age and the children must be no heavier than 8 stone in weight.

Adults can ride in competetive donkey racing derbies, but they must stick to the 8 stone and under weight restriction.

More Donkey Derby Rules/Code

  • Donkeys used for races or riding as side attractions should be atleast 4 years of age.
  • Donkeys used for races or riding as side attractions should be passed fit by a vet.
  • Donkeys used for races or riding as side attractions should not be in foal.
  • The riding tack should fit properly, and stirrups or saddles are discouraged.
  • Click To See The Working Donkeys Official Code Of Practice

Donkey & Donkey Racing/Derby Information

Donkey Educational Days @ Your Local School Donkey Hire: Hire The Donkeys Here For Your Donkey Derby Donkey Hire: Donkey Derby & Sulky Racing Donkey Pictures: Donkey Image Gallery @ Getty The Donkey Society Of Great Britain Wikipedia Donkey Entry Page

Castletown Donkey Derby 1994 (Ireland)

Last Updated: (Mon Jan 27, 2025)

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Donkey derbies are a fun and quirky tradition, and they're full of interesting facts. Here's a rundown:

What is a Donkey Derby?

It's a race where people ride donkeys, often in a humorous, chaotic, and sometimes even a bit messy fashion!

These events are typically held at fairs, festivals, and community gatherings.

They are designed to be a fun and light hearted event, with a focus on entertainment rather than serious competition.


Interesting Facts about Donkey Derbies:

Origin: The exact origin of donkey derbies is unclear, but they're thought to have roots in folk traditions and agricultural events.

Rules and Variations: The rules can vary, but often involve riders trying to guide their donkey to the finish line, sometimes with obstacles or challenges along the way. Sometimes riders are even blindfolded!

The Donkeys: Donkeys are known for their stubborn nature, which can add to the entertainment factor. They're also relatively gentle and patient animals, making them suitable for these light hearted events.

Safety: Animal welfare is always a concern, and reputable donkey derby organizers will ensure the donkeys are well-cared for and the event is safe for both animals and riders.

Community Spirit: Donkey derbies can be a great way for communities to come together for some good-natured fun.


Popular Culture:

Donkey derbies have been featured in movies, books, and television shows, often as a way to depict a quirky or humorous aspect of small-town life.

Blogger Sandracer @ 12:25 pm, September 28, 2024  


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