Pack burro racing

Pack burro racing is a sport in Colorado, Arizona, California, and New Mexico that is rooted in the various western states' mining histories.

Burros were formerly required to carry a pack saddle with 33 pounds (15 kilograms) of traditional mining gear, which must include a pick, gold pan, and shovel.

It takes place the first full weekend of August, typically a week after the Fairplay race, as part of the Leadville's Boom Days city festival.

The race goes to the top of Mosquito Pass, then comes back into town through the California Gulch Mining District, past the site of Oro City.

It typically takes place a week after the Leadville race as part of Buena Vista's Gold Rush Days festival.

Nowadays, the excitement generated by Colorado's enthusiastic embrace of the sport is now beginning to fuel an interest in other western states.