Turtle races in Longueville - an incendiary reptile race (7 photos + 1 video)

There are legends about the slowness of the shelled creatures. There are a lot of jokes about this topic. And the residents of Longville, a tiny town in Minnesota, went even further.





And they came up with a whole show and a popular sport, making the city practically the "world capital of turtle racing".



Every Wednesday during the summer, families vacationing in the Longueville area flock to the town to take part in the exciting reptile races. The story began in 1989 with a corresponding proclamation by the state legislature.





Around noon, the turtlemobile arrives in town. With the help of several dozen volunteers, the main road through the city is closed off and a mini-fair is set up in its place.



The races begin at about 1:45 p.m. For $3, you can rent a turtle for the competition. The reptiles participate in the races, with about 10-12 armored athletes in each. Special music is played to indicate the start time.



The fastest turtle – the one that runs from the center of the designated circle to the outer ring the fastest – gets a green ribbon and participates in the championship. The slow turtle will have a second chance to compete with other lazy participants during a special outsider race.



In fact, turtle racing has been going on for over 50 years. In 1967, saloon owner Russ Nyvall noticed that the sleepy town of Longueville had little to do for kids and young adults, so he came up with the idea.

What started as a simple tradition has grown into a full-blown event with costumed games, a stage and announcer, a hula hoop contest, prizes, and vendors selling crafts and treats. Now, in the summer, the town of barely 150 people can see up to 2,000 tourists, helping to boost business.



The winner and the slowest person receive a special prize. Their photos are published in the local newspaper and on the website. Longville's example proves that any idea, even one that seems absurd at first glance, can be successful. You just need to put in the effort. And, what is important, the animals do not suffer much during the competition, but even enjoy the race.