Camel racing, once a Middle Eastern tradition, now a global sensation. Swizz Beatz’s Saudi Bronx team brings a modern twist, akin to Formula 1 dynamics. With victories across GCC races, including Oman and Dubai, they blend Saudi tradition with Bronx flair. This year, three Saudi Bronx camels qualify for AlUla Camel Cup, boasting a track record of over 20 accolades. Swizz’s journey expands camel racing’s reach worldwide, alongside his influence in music, art, and culture. As an ambassador of Saudi culture and founder of Good Intentions consultancy, he bridges diverse cultures through sport and creativity.
Could you share with us the inspiration behind the Saudi Bronx brand and its significance in blending Saudi and Bronx cultures? How do you see this fusion shaping the identity of your camel racing team?
I was born and raised in the Bronx, New York. I also have a long-standing relationship with Saudi Arabia and have continually invested my time and resources there. My admiration for the history and the stories about the region is unwavering. I feel that Saudi Bronx is a lifestyle and I love the blending of cultures that it involves. I hope to foster cultural exchange and attract young people to the sport. I really want to encourage all people to learn new things and be open-minded to experience things they might not have known about before, including camel racing.
You’ve been involved in various disruptive projects throughout your career. How did your past experiences set the stage for your venture into camel racing? In what ways do you see camel racing as a continuation of your history of pushing boundaries and challenging norms?
Well, my background includes a variety of endeavors. I’ve been a record producer, DJ, record executive, rapper/musician, fashion designer, brand collaborator, art collector, webcast series creator, creative director, real estate owner, philanthropist, and museum board member, so I have really tried to push boundaries in whatever I’m involved with. I have always tried to show the world how to take chances, so getting involved with camel racing is just the latest venture where I can bring my creativity and energy to the forefront, while showcasing something I truly love.
What initially sparked your passion for camel racing, and what motivated you to become the first American team owner in this traditional Middle Eastern sport? How do you approach camel racing differently, bringing your unique perspective and background into the sport?
I always watched camels race and train on my many visits to the country. I was impressed by not only the tradition and the history behind it, but the energy and excitement as well. I knew I wanted to be a part of it, and I also knew that I could help focus a more global spotlight on the sport. I really hope to showcase the Saudi Bronx brand, which includes merchandise, film, art, music and other experiential touchpoints that people from all over the world can relate to, share and enjoy. Many people take from Saudi and I wanted to bring things to Saudi.
Could you walk us through a typical day in your life as a camel racing team owner? What are some of the challenges and rewards you experience in managing and overseeing the Saudi Bronx team’s operations and training?
Answer: Well, I now own 43 animals, and I employ 50 people to care for them! So they are the real operators, trainers and caretakers of the Saudi Bronx team. We’ve won over 20 races so far. A typical day involves starting off with a lot of coordination and passion. Every morning is about setting the tone for the day—ensuring the team is energized and focused. It’s not just about the physical training but also the strategic planning that goes into every race and every decision. Managing and overseeing the Saudi Bronx team is as much about inspiring my team as it is about handling these incredible animals. The challenges? Well, every day is different, but that’s also what makes it rewarding. Every success and every hurdle teaches us something new.
Your relationship with your camel racing trainer seems to be special. Could you elaborate on the cultural and familial bonds that exist between you and your trainers, such as Hamad Almirri and Feleh Albulowi? How do these connections influence your approach to camel racing?
Camel racing is a family sport, meaning that families who understand camels and the actual intricacies of the sport are usually among the most successful winners of the races. There is a long history of breeding, training, and caretaking involved. I have a very close bond with my trainers, and I admire their dedication, love and respect. We are actual friends and enjoy each other’s families, whether it’s racing season or not.
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