A sport of surprising depth and history, turtle racing combines the fascination of reptile biology with the dynamics of racing. Its roots go back to the remote regions of Southeast Asia, where village communities would pit their native turtles against each other in friendly competitions. Over time, this quirky pastime evolved into an organized sport that gained popularity in the United States in the 1960s, especially in areas with a taste for the unusual.

The races, which began as a fairground attraction, soon attracted a serious following. The professionalization of the sport brought with it structured rules and formal competitions. Tortoises, once derided for their slowness, were valued as athletes, and breeders selected species specifically for speed and endurance.

Our current photo report masterfully captures the excitement and drama of these races. Using high-speed camera techniques, we documented the impressive acceleration of the armored athletes and the subtle facial expressions of the jockeys, who steered their reptilian partners with remarkable skill. The specially designed courses challenge the natural abilities of the turtles and offer an exciting spectacle for spectators and participants alike.

Turtle racing is now a discipline that combines skill, tradition and biological understanding, celebrating both nature and human ingenuity. Our reportage shows these extraordinary moments that push the boundaries of the imaginable and take the art of photography to a new level.