US envoy joins falconry fans, experiencing Saudi cultural heritage RIYADH: A peregrine falcon chick named Ultra White has been sold for a record SR400,000 ($106,600) this year after an initial price of SR100,000 at the 2024 International Falcon Breeders Auction, the Saudi Press Agency reported on Wednesday. American breeder Pacific Northwest Falcons, the owner of Ultra White, sold another peregrine chick named Super White for SR86,000 after an opening price of SR40,000 during the bidding on Tuesday night. The event, hosted by the Saudi Falcons Club from Aug. 5-24 at its headquarters in Malham, north of Riyadh, features top falconry farms from 19 countries, showcasing championship-winning breeds for falconers, producers, and enthusiasts. Twelve auction nights will be held throughout the event, with competitions and auctions streamed live on TV channels and the club’s social media platforms. The annual auction in Riyadh, which this year features 19 falconry farms from 19 countries, showcases championship-winning breeds for falconers, producers and enthusiasts. (SPA) The club announces the falcons on offer before each auction night, SPA reported. US Ambassador to Saudi Arabia Michael Ratney also visited the event and was briefed on the methods used to produce distinctive types of falcons. Photos were taken of the ambassador with the falcons during the tour, where he visited the Falconer of the Future pavilion, designated for junior falconers. Ratney was also briefed on Saudi cultural heritage and how falconry has been passed down through generations. With a history of exceeding SR18 million in sales over the past three years, the auction introduces new international breeding farms and fosters collaboration among producers and investors. US Ambassador to Saudi Arabia Michael Ratney also visited the event and was briefed on the methods used to produce distinctive types of falcons. (SPA) The event provides a valuable networking opportunity for falconers and breeders from around the world, aligning with the Saudi Falcons Club’s commitment to preserving falconry heritage and promoting the Kingdom as a global center for the sport. It also aligns with the club’s vision to lead in falconry development, innovation, breeding, and care. The event contributes to the cultural and economic landscape while raising awareness about environmental conservation.