Suicide Race facts for kids
The Suicide Race, also called the World Famous Suicide Race, is an exciting horse race held every year. It takes place in Omak, Washington, in the Pacific Northwest part of the United States. This race is a big part of the Omak Stampede, which is a yearly rodeo event in early to mid-August.
The first race happened in 1935. It is famous for one part where horses and their riders run down a very steep hill. This hill is called Suicide Hill. It has a 62-percent slope and goes down for about 225 feet to the Okanogan River. The race was inspired by old endurance races held by Native American tribes. A local business owner in Omak came up with the idea for this specific race in 1935. Some groups that care about animals have shared concerns about the race.
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About the Race Course
The race starts at the top of Suicide Hill. This is on the north side of the Okanogan River in east Omak. Riders have about 50 feet to get their horses running very fast. Then, they charge down the steep hill and into the river.
After crossing the river to the south side, they sprint about 500 yards. This final sprint leads them to the rodeo arena. A large crowd waits there to cheer them on. In August, the river is often shallow enough for the horses to run across it. Most riders wear helmets for safety. All riders must wear life jackets.
Getting Ready for the Race
Horses and riders must pass three important tests. These tests make sure they are ready for the race and can cross the river safely.
- Vet Check: First, a veterinarian checks the horse. This makes sure the horse is healthy and strong enough to race.
- Swim Test: Next, horses must show they can swim across the river. This proves they are comfortable in the water.
- Hill Test: Finally, riders take their horses down Suicide Hill at a slow speed. This test shows that the horses will not get scared at the top of the hill. If a horse gets scared, it could cause a dangerous pile-up.
Riders and Their Traditions
The riders in the Suicide Race come from different backgrounds. Both cowboys and Native American riders take part. Many members of the Confederated Tribes of the Colville Indian Reservation see the race as very important. Their reservation includes East Omak and the rodeo grounds. For them, the race reminds them of their traditions as horse warriors.
Many Tribal riders feel a spiritual connection to the race. A cultural leader for the tribes has said it shows how a rider and horse can become "one." Riders who feel this spiritual connection often pray in sweat lodges. They also place sacred eagle feathers on their horses.
History of the Race
The Suicide Race began in 1935. Claire Pentz, who helped promote the Omak rodeo, created it. He wanted to make the rodeo more popular.
The idea for the race came from Native American endurance races. These races were held in the 1800s on the Colville Indian Reservation. They took place in a valley near Keller, Washington. This valley was later flooded when the Grand Coulee Dam was built in the 1930s.
