By Kathryn Roundy
In Spanish Fork, a field with an empty obstacle course strewn with tires, ramps and hoops will soon be full of rushing llamas as they compete in the 13th Annual Llama Fest this Saturday.
Created as a way to highlight these unusual pets, the festival includes several activities for llamas and humans alike.
In order to demonstrate their skills, the llamas will be led through the obstacle course and judged on their performances.
“It”s like American Gladiators,” said Creighton Herrmann, a BYU junior from West Jordan. “I would recommend going just for the obstacle course.”
The llamas will also be judged in a show ring and compete in races.
Baby llamas and their mommas will be kept in a corral where the public is welcome to pet and feed them, festival organizer Caru Warden said.
The crowd will then judge the beautiful baby contest – picking the best-looking baby llama, he said.
People are encouraged to bring llamas to the festival.
“We will even pay for their gas,” Warden said.
Outside of the llama activities, there will be performing art groups, bands, handicrafts and food.
“It”s definitely a must see,” said James Selu, a BYU senior from West Valley. “You have to go at least once.”
The festival will begin at 4 p.m. on Saturday at the Hare Krishna Temple, 8628 S. Main Street, Spanish Fork.
Admission is $3 for adults and $1 for children.
For more information visit www.utahvalleyllamas.com
