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At the foot of the Superstition Mountains you'll find excitement in the legends and lore of days gone by; drawn by the promise of gold, prospectors would pass through town on their way to the hills, either to stake their own claim, or discover the fabled Lost Dutchman's stash. It's here you'll find a historic event of another sort: the Apache Junction Burro Derby. Begun in the 1950's, this fun family event is a delight for participants and spectators alike. For those individuals entered in the race, you can expect a fast, mostly flat course (there are a few small rolling hills) in a loop of 3-5 miles through the desert, starting and ending at the Apache Junction Rodeo Grounds grandstand arena. The race will begin at 10am or shortly after. After the race is over you can enjoy all the fun of the HeeHaw Hootenanny, which includes in hand trail obstacle classes and jackpacking with your donkey (or mule! The race is donkeys only, but the hootenanny is for anything that hee haws!). The race is limited to handlers 14 years old and up, but we will have youth divisions in the in-hand classes. There is no lower age limit to in hand, but small children may need to participate with an adult helper.
For those folks without a long ear, we have plenty of free, family activities, including a stick donkey rodeo, best bray competition, farm games, live music, vendors, and the East Valley Back Country Horseman's yearly gathering. All of these activities will be open and available from 9am-4pm.
Sign up for the race here: https://runsignup.com/Race/AZ/ApacheJunction/BRAYApacheJunctionBurroDerby
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Event Venue & Nearby Stays
Apache Junction Rodeo Grounds, 1590 E Lost Dutchman Blvd, Apache Junction, AZ 85119, United States,Apache Junction, Arizona
