SOUTH FORK – For the past three years, the South Fork Friends Foundation has worked to strengthen a new event in South Fork and their efforts have paid off. The annual Alder Ass Race is next weekend and is expected to bring the largest crowd of burro racers to the area since the event’s start in 2022.
Burro racing has been a staple in small mountain towns throughout the US and Colorado. Burros played a significant role in South Fork’s timber history, which makes it an excellent location to have this historic and fun event.
The South Fork Friends Foundation is planning to host more than 60 pack burro race teams at Browns Park located north of South Fork along Highway 149 on Saturday, Aug. 31.
Burro racing began as a way to honor the hard work and dedication of those from the past who relied on the animals to travel, work in yards, mines, and agriculture, and participate in some greatest historical events such as the Fremont Expedition that took place in 1848 here in the San Luis Valley.
Each of these historical tales showcases these amazing animals and their ability to survive in the toughest conditions. Though many of the tales end in tragedy, it is another reason the animals are so cherished today.
Several area sanctuaries participate in the annual Alder Ass Race including Burro Buddies that is located in South Fork. This burro rescue is home to several burros that came from the BLM Wild Burro Project and have found not only a new home but a new mission in life serving as some of the pack burros that participate in the race.
South Fork is also home to Tiny as Donkey Experience, another burro sanctuary that focuses on sharing education and the joy of owning a burro with the public.
The Alder Ass Race will be from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Browns Park. There will be food, fun and entertainment for everyone throughout the day. Race registration is open until just before the race so be sure to sign up at www.adventuresignup.com/Race/CO/SouthFork/SouthForkAlderAssRace.
The intro course is three miles. Pack saddles, gold pan, pick, and shovel are optional for this distance. The majority of this course is on pavement for an out and back route.
The short course is eight miles. Boots or alternative hoof protection is recommended, but not mandatory. The course may include water crossings. Max elevation can be up to 8,703 feet.
The long course is 19.25 miles. This course is challenging, rocky, and may include water crossings. Boots or alternative hoof protection is highly recommended, but not mandatory. South Fork's elevation gain is 2,862 feet with a max elevation of 10,913 feet.
