SOFAAR burro race trots through South Fork

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Photos by Lyndsie Ferrell The SOFAAR burro race trotted off the start-finish line Saturday morning as racers made their way along Alder Creek near South Fork for a 3-, 8- and 22-mile course.

SOUTH FORK — The day finally arrived on Saturday, Sept. 3, for the first SOFAAR burro race in South Fork.

The South Fork Friends Foundation gathered all the participants Saturday morning in Brown’s Park just north of town for a 3-, 8- and 22-mile course that took racers into the Alder Creek area. The starting shot rang out along the high cliffs surrounding the park as racers dashed off the start-finish line in the morning sunshine.

Spectators were invited to come out and cheer the racers on as they made their way along the course, and they showed up in style. While spectators cheered on the participants and their furry companions, people were also invited to make guesses on where the first donkey dropping would land and if guessed correctly, would receive a prize.

The day was packed with fun and featured more than 50 experienced and beginner racers. Burro racing is a popular sport and according to several of the racers, it is something the donkeys like to do and spending time with their human companions is on the top of every donkey’s wish list according to 71-year-old racer Bill Lee.

Lee was quoted prior to the race saying, "We're preserving history and giving burros purpose filled, productive lives. Supporting towns to help them continue to thrive.”

Lee and his donkey Dolly participated in the 8-mile course, and he has been competing since the late 1980s.

Several other stories were told throughout the course of the day which highlighted the unique experience of burro racing. The youngest participant was Milan Mosher, of Alamosa, who ran the 3-mile course for the first time with his burro Churro, who by the way, loves carrots.

The day was considered a success by organizers and plans are already underway for another race next year. South Fork Friends Foundation President Luke Brennan and several volunteers worked many hours to get this event off the ground and their efforts shown throughout the day.

“Our inaugural South Fork Friends Foundation Alder Ass Race is now in the books. As race organizer and as a participant, race day afforded me zero time to take pictures but there are photos flying around the internet, and it just shows what an amazing event this turned out to be. Thanks to our sponsors, our volunteers, South Fork Fire Rescue, the US Forest Service, and to our community for helping to make it all happen,” said Brennan.

For more information or to stay up to date with the South Fork Friends Foundation, visit their Facebook page under South Fork Friends Foundation or visit www.southforkfriendsfoundation.com.