On the list of animals that humans can ride, race or bet on, you might not expect to see one that bites, snarls and even spits up the contents of its stomach. But in Alice Springs, Australia, the ornery dromedary takes center stage once a year for the Lasseters Camel Cup.  

Weather in your inbox

Forecast Location

Sign Up

By signing up you agree to the Terms & Privacy Policy. Unsubscribe at any time.

Billed as an event that features "temperamental, terribly unpredictable" animals, the Lasseters Camel Cup is a series of races that attracts around 5,000 people from around the world every year. Camels can be pretty irascible and a challenge to ride, so only professional riders and their camels can enter the races, reported the Los Angeles Times. Even with professional riders, the camels might move backward instead of forward at the beginning of the race, or they might just stand still, says Lonely Planet.

(MORE: UK Teen Wins World's Longest Horse Race)

In addition to a straightforward camel race, the Lasseter Camel Cup also features a rickshaw race, a couple's "Honeymoon Handicap" and a hobble race. Other entertainment includes belly dancing, music and kids' activities. All proceeds from the two-day event go to local charities. 

To learn more about the Camel Cup and make a visit if you're going to be in Australia in July, visit the Camel Cup website.

MORE ON WEATHER.COM: Camels Compete in Beauty Contest