Bray Apache Junction Burro Derby

BRAY Apache Junction Burro Derby

The BRAY Apache Junction Burro Derby is scheduled for Saturday, February 7, 2026, in Apache Junction, Arizona, at Prospector Park near 3015 N Idaho Road. The event pairs one human runner with one burro on a looped desert course of 3 to 5 miles that is described as fast and mostly flat with a few small rolling hills.

Entrants must provide their own donkey teammate; BRAY does not furnish animals. Each competing burro must have a negative Equine Infectious Anemia Coggins test dated within one year and recorded in the current owner’s name. Veterinary checks for soundness and general health will occur before and after the race. No intact jacks are permitted.

Teams must remain one runner plus one burro for the entire race. The burro must wear a strap or rope halter and be led by a single lead rope no longer than 15 feet attached only to the halter tie ring or tie loop. Runners are fully responsible for the safe handling and welfare of their burro and may not tether or anchor themselves to the animal. Course markings must be followed and teams that interfere with others or mistreat animals may be disqualified.

After the race the Prospector Playday offers in-hand trail obstacle classes and a stick donkey rodeo for children; the playday accepts mules while the race is restricted to donkeys. Entry fees are determined by BRAY and are not refundable. Participants are advised to carry water, food, and basic first aid for themselves and their burro. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.