River & Rails Donkey Dash

River & Rails Donkey Dash

Date: October 10, 2026
Location: Washington County Fairgrounds, Cambridge, ID

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Race Overview

• First Event: The first donkey race in Idaho!
• Distance Options: 3, 6 & 9 mile burro race.
• Participation: Walkers and hikers are welcome.
• Requirements: You must have your own donkey - no "rentals" will be available.

Course Details

• Course Type: Out and back along the Weiser River Trail.
• Scenery: Following the Weiser River through canyons and open farmland.
• Elevation: Very little elevation change on the course.
• Experience: Great opportunity to bond with your burro on the trails!

What is Burro Racing?

• Definition: “Burro” is the Spanish word for donkey.
• History: Rooted in mining histories of western states.
• Recognition: Official "summer heritage sport" in Colorado since 2012.
• Origin Story: Races trace back to miners racing to claims offices.

Race Rules

Lead Ropes

• Fitting: All burros must have a halter and lead rope no longer than 15 feet.
• Attachment: The lead rope must be attached to the halter at all times.

Control of Burro

• Handling: Maintain control of your burro using the lead rope attached to the halter.
• Trail Use: Keep to the designated trail with no cutting switchbacks.
• Awareness: Be aware of those around you and practice trail courtesy.
• Safety: If you lose control, return to the point of loss to avoid disqualification.

Team & Participation

• Team Definition: A team consists of one handler with one burro.
• Ownership: You must have your own burro or arrangements made prior to registration.
• Age Restrictions: Children 12 & under may have an adult helper on the 3-mile course.
• No Riding: There is NO riding of any burros allowed.

Veterinary and Safety Guidelines

Veterinary Checks

• Preparation: Wise to have a vet check prior to any event.
• Health Requirements: Sick or injured burros may not participate.
• Out-of-State Burros: Must obtain negative Coggins test and health certificate.

Disqualifications

• Mistreatment: Any handler mistreating their burro will be disqualified.
• Prohibited Tools: No “tools” other than a lead rope allowed.
• Appeal: Disqualified runners can finish and appeal to the race director.

Participant Information

Waivers

• Risk: Participants race at their own risk.
• Liability: No liable parties for accidents or injuries.
• Legislation: Idaho’s Equine Limited Liability statute provides protection.

What to Wear

• Clothing: Comfortable running clothes in layers.
• Shoes: Trail shoes with good tread.
• Supplies: Gloves, water, food, and potential items like a rain jacket.

Handling Suggestions & Courtesies

• Course Awareness: Study the course map before the race.
• Starting Position: Positioning helps with spacing for safety.
• Control: Hold the lead rope near the nose of the halter at the start.
• Loose Burros: Alert others if you lose control of your burro.

Camping & Schedule of Events

Camping Information

• Availability: Dry camping is available at the Washington County Fairgrounds.
• Reservation: No reservations needed: just show up.
• Fees: $10/spot per night.
• Facilities: Bring water buckets: some water available on-site.

Schedule of Events

• Friday, October 9th: Check-in with the assistant race director.
• Saturday, October 10th: Race check-in at 8:00 am, Race Meeting at 9:00 am, Race starts at 10:00 am.
• Awards: Ceremony after all racers return.
• Sunday, October 12th: Pack up camp and safe travels home at noon.

Contact Information

If you have any questions about this race, please email the race director, Kim Minter at happyassburrorescue@gmail.com or the assistant race director, Beth Ahrend at ahrend.beth@gmail.com.