Stampede Sans `Suicide Race' Goes On; Tribes Hold Own Fest

OMAK, Okanogan County - For decades, 20 horses and their riders have plunged together down a sandy cliff each August before fording the Okanogan River below and dashing toward the finish line in a nearby rodeo arena.

It's called the "Suicide Race," a name animal-rights activists have long found apt: Since 1983, 13 horses have been euthanized because of race injuries, including one in each of the past three contests.

Despite a 64-year history, the race has been scrubbed from this year's Omak Stampede, a days-long rodeo that began yesterday in this small north-central Washington town. Members of the Colville Confederated Tribes, whose members comprise most of the daredevil riders, are boycotting the event.

Instead, the Colvilles welcome the public to their own event in nearby Nespelem this weekend, with dancing competitions, a dinner and horse-endurance races.

Indian leaders say that, with each passing year, Omak Stampede organizers have pushed their Indian encampment - the site of traditional stick games, dancing and crafts - farther from the hub of activity at the event.

Colville Chairwoman Colleen Cawston said the tribes pulled out after new Omak parking regulations directed crowds farther from the Indian village.

"There's been numerous things building up," she said. "Sometimes, you have to make a hard decision to have a better future."

Organizers cited the boycott in canceling the race last week, as well as what they said are dangerously high waters on the Okanogan.

The cancellation has left a big gap in the Omak Stampede, which brings in more than $2 million annually to the town.

Officials say Omak Stampede ticket sales are strong, but a few have demanded refunds in the wake of the cancellation and have been refused.

Omak Stampede President Fred Winningham said he's saddened by the tribe's absence, and says city and rodeo officials will meet with tribal leaders in an effort to get them to return next year.