Sacramento’s own Michael Kahn, renowned food and adventure blogger, is swapping his paddle board for a more exotic mode of transport—a camel. Kahn is set to make waves at the 65th International Camel & Ostrich Races in Virginia City, Nevada, aiming to bring home the title of the fastest camel jockey from California.
Update: Read the story of my time at the Camel Races.
Kahn, well-known in the blogging community and restaurant industry for his culinary explorations and adrenaline-fueled adventures, is taking his thrill-seeking lifestyle to new heights—or rather, new humps. Trading the calm waters of the American River for the silver-mining town Virginia City, Kahn is excited to take part in this quirky and historic event, which has drawn participants and spectators alike since 1959.
“When I first shared with my friends I’d be racing as a camel jockey, they questioned my experience,” Kahn slyly revealed, “To which I assured them, it can’t be any harder than mounting an angry hippopotamus. Now, while I have never gotten near an angry hippo, I wasn’t about to reveal that to my friends, quite possibly shaking their confidence in my camel riding abilities.”
This race is a unique blend of tradition, challenge, and pure fun, and Kahn can’t wait to see how he measures up against some of the fastest camels in the area. “I’ve paddled the mirror-like surfaces of the alpine lakes of California, but now it’s time to conquer the desert.”
Kahn races not just for glory, but is dedicating his efforts to a charitable cause. Whether he wins or loses, Kahn has pledged proceeds from the race to a yet to be disclosed nonprofit organization, as part of his commitment as a member of 1% for the Planet. Giving back to the community and making a positive impact through adventure is one of the pillars and hallmarks of his work.
The Virginia City Camel Races have long been a staple of the town’s annual festivities, with jockeys from around the world competing for the top spot. Kahn’s participation as a first-time camel jockey adds an extra layer of excitement, especially for those following his adventures on his popular blog and Instagram.
Kahn’s entry into the race is not just about speed, but also about embracing the spirit of adventure and spontaneity which has defined his life. With a few practice rides on a see-saw and spring riders under his belt at the local playground, Kahn feels ready to take on the competition and bring a win back to California.
Proprietary tools and algorithms to measure just how fast Kahn is have been developed by Kahn himself, ensuring a win either way.
Michael Kahn will be diving deep into the vibrant history and culture surrounding the Camel Races in Virginia City. As part of his adventure, Kahn plans to conduct interviews with race attendees, fellow camel jockeys, and event organizers to capture the unique stories and traditions that make this annual event so special. His goal is to go beyond the race itself, uncovering the personal experiences and the rich history that have shaped the races into the beloved spectacle they are today.
Kahn’s interviews will offer a behind-the-scenes look at what it’s like to participate in the camel races, from the preparation and training to the adrenaline-filled moments on the track. He aims to share these insights with his audience, providing a vivid narrative that highlights not only the excitement of the race, but also the camaraderie and community spirit that define Virginia City.
Through these stories, Kahn will showcase the diverse backgrounds of the participants, the challenges they face, and the traditions they uphold.
Following the event, Kahn will compile these interviews and his own experiences into a comprehensive follow-up piece on his blog. This piece will offer readers a first-hand account of what it’s like to be part of the Virginia City Camel Races, blending the thrill of competition with the warmth of shared stories and the enduring legacy of this quirky and historic event.
The 2024 Virginia City Camel Races will take place from September 6-8, promising a weekend full of entertainment, history, and unexpected twists. Fans and followers can track Kahn’s progress and cheer him on as he races for glory in this one-of-a-kind event.
Kahn will be racing at the 10 a.m. slot on Saturday, September 7th, and signing autographs and taking photos during Hot Camel Nights on September 6th.
- Hot Camel Nights – a special Friday evening performance at 5 p.m.
- Saturday 2-shows – 10 a.m. and 2 p.m.
- Saturday’s Camel Hump to C Street – 12:30 – 1:30 p.m.
- Sunday Family Day – 12 p.m. show, first 100 kids ride a camel for free
Tickets for the 65th International Camel & Ostrich Races can be purchased here.
For more information about Michael Kahn and his adventures, visit Michael Kahn’s Blog MK Library or follow him on Instagram @themklibrary, or email mk@mklibrary.com. Reel for this post.
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I strive to paint vivid landscapes with my words, bringing the magic of far-off lands and enchanting aromas to life for my readers. Combine passion for exploration and the art of gastronomy in an unending ode to the senses. When I’m not traversing the globe, I find solace in the earth beneath my fingertips, tending to my garden and working on projects around my verdant oasis. MK Library serves as a beacon, guiding fellow travelers and homebodies alike to embrace sustainability, nurturing both our planet and our souls with purpose. Full Bio.
