RIYADH: Theyab bin Hamdan Al-Howaiti has become a standout name in camel racing circles across the Kingdom  — despite his tender years. The 17-year-old has collected 30 local awards for racing, the most prestigious of which came at the King Abdulaziz Camel Festival. Al-Howaiti said: “I grew up in a family and community that loved camels, used them, and were keen to race as well. We considered it part of our heritage, customs and traditions.” Hailing from Al-Wajh city, his love for the “ship of the desert” began in childhood years and he soon began training, raising and caring for them, while also following races. Once he had reached the legal age, he began participating in national races himself. Al-Howaiti has competed in around 80 races, including the Al-Wajh Camel Race, and has won 30 awards so far. Camel racing is a competitive sport in which the animals undergo training in stages, beginning with being tamed and then moving on to being prepared for races. Racing has strict rules, the most important of which involves the characteristics of the participating camels — the necessity of descending from purebred Arabian breeds. Purebred camels are characterized by their slim bodies, agility, and great ability to withstand tough training. There are separate races for different breeds and ages of camels to ensure equal opportunities for all racers. Al-Howaiti has set his sights for the future. He hopes one day to claim glory at the Crown Prince Camel Festival Awards, No. 1 in prestigious ranks within Saudi society. Al-Howaiti said: “I hope to see a place and arena for camels in every city within the Kingdom, in appreciation of its (racing’s) status and the legacy it carries that embodies the history of the Kingdom’s civilization. “In light of the care and attention given to sports in general and camel sports in particular by the Kingdom’s sovereigns, we’re proud to name 2024 as the Year of the Camel.” He added that the recognition contributed to the cultural and civilizational values of the animal while cementing its place at the heart of Saudi society.