“I’ve never experienced anything as thrilling as a camel race,"said Leslie.
Dubai, United Arab Emirates (UAE) – February 24, 2024 - Isabella Leslie, hailing from Kentucky, USA, made racing history today, February 24th, as she became the first American to both participate in and win the C1 camel racing championships in Dubai, UAE, winning a prize of 1,000 Dirhams. Leslie completed the 1200m race in a record time of two minutes and three seconds, with riders from The United Kingdom and Bahrain finishing in second and third place respectively.
Leslie’s coach and mentor, Linda Krockenberger, established the C1 Championships in 2021 as the first licensed all-female camel race. Riders from nations around the world participate in this annual event, including riders from New Zealand, Germany, France, Russia, and the UAE.
Speaking on her win, Leslie said, “I’ve never experienced anything as thrilling as a camel race. I’m always competitive and hate losing, but my goal for today was to have fun. I felt as though I’d already won, having accomplished the challenge of getting my license in such a short time, and doing so alongside my friend and coach Linda. To win was the icing in the cake.”
Krockenberger and Leslie met while in Dubai and 202and have maintained a steady relationship in the years since. Reflecting on the significance of the race, Krockenberger said, “Today’s race showed that camel racing isn’t just for those in or from the Middle East. We saw 2 participants based in Europe and the US, who specifically came to the UAE to train and compete. “
In addition to her historic win, Leslie possesses a diverse background within the Thoroughbred racing industry. She has worked with renowned horse trainer and dual Hall of Famer, Mark E. Casse, whose 40-year career has earned him over 3,500 racing wins. Currently, Leslie supports marketing efforts for multiple racing companies, including America’s Best Racing and JockeyCam. She also helps oversee US operations for Amo Racing. She earned her degree in Equine business in 2021 from Kentucky’s University of Louisville College of Business.
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