Zaraniq tribe member jumping over 5 camels
[July 31, 2014] Savage manliness? Perhaps not. Camel jumping in Yemen is more of an oddity than a “savage manly” sport … although there are some professional jumpers from the Azraniq tribe who would disagree. The sport does require considerable strength and agility. There is some opportunity to get hurt by a fall or by the camel kicking the jumper. The winner is simply the person who can jump over the most camels.
Typically, camel jumping takes place at local celebrations; weddings are one of the common events or one of a few annual festivals. It is also a rite of passage for young men. Camel jumping is said to be an ancient sport and largely forgotten. This means it is hard to find but an enterprising photojournalist from the United States documented the sport and help bring it international attention.
To see camel jumping, go to this YouTube link here. I wonder if the guys holding tails of the camels are a bit crazy. Five camels appear to be the limit of our camel jumpers. No serious injuries so far.
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