WEST BRANCH — The 2026 Optimist Club Camel Races will be held Saturday, March 21, at the Knights of Columbus Hall, 601 Columbus Avenue, West Branch. The event begins at 5:30 p.m.
The annual fundraiser is one of the Optimist Club’s best-known community events and helps support the club’s work on behalf of local youth. The evening typically combines food, fun and friendly competition, while raising money for projects that benefit children and families in the area.
Despite the name, camel races do not involve real camels. Instead, the event features a mechanical or novelty-style racing game in which participants sponsor or bet on miniature camels as they move along a track. The races are designed for entertainment and often include rounds of cheering, laughter and crowd participation.
The Optimist Club is a service organization made up of volunteers who focus on supporting young people and improving the community. Fundraisers such as the Camel Races help the club continue its local programs and outreach efforts.
The West Branch Optimist Club meets Thursdays at 7 a.m. at Loggers Depot in West Branch. For info call 989-942-6608
