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Burro racing may sound like a silly sport, but its devotees are serious about it, and the one-hour documentary Haulin’ Ass explores that competitive drive by following three racers through the 2009 competitive season.
“This is a little attempt at finding the true West and the lifestyles of the not so rich and famous,” one character says on screen. “It’s a story about a bunch of bull-goose loony athletes, their critters…and if you hang with us a while, maybe you’ll see why we’re so passionate about our animals.”
Burro racing, which is native to this state, pairs one human and one donkey along a predetermined and often elevated course. The burro is not intended for human transport, and while the human can carry the animal, duos risk disqualification if the burro returns the favor. Directed by New York filmmaker Trevor Velin, Haulin’ Ass traces the rewards and motivations of one of the world’s least fan-friendly sports.
Competitor magazine editor Brian Metzler, also a burro racer, will present the film at 7 p.m. Friday at Chautauqua Auditorium, 900 Baseline Road in Boulder. Tickets are $12; for more information, call 303-440-7666 or visit www.chautauqua.com.
Fri., May 25, 7 p.m., 2012
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