Donkey Races, courtesy of the Gentlemen of Jones, a local social group, were part of this year's Emancipation Week activities. The races were held at the Paul E. Joseph Baseball Stadium in Frederiksted. By the end of the day, the Gentlemen themselves were riding the donkeys. Great fun for all.

	The racecourse was set - barrels and barriers - while the audience waited for the event to begin. The wait was over an hour due to the non-arrival of the sound equipment.

	The active participants.

	Eyore and his little cart gets to mingle with the people while the other donkey's wait in their cages.

	While waiting, we wander over to the refreshments that the Gentlemen of Jones have offered for the day.

	Hamburgers and hotdogs, and of course, lots to drink. The ribbons for the winners.

	And finally it was time to begin. Robert Pennyfeather and Dodson James announced the races and the rules - well there are none - when it comes to donkeys, just fun.

	The crowd looks in the direction of the race course. The riders try to get on their donkeys.

	Sue Lakos was having a hard time getting everyone on at the same time to drop the flag for the beginning of the race.

	And they're off - one this way and one that way, but they're off.

	Coming around the barrels and then, Oh! a spill. It is very difficult to get to the finish line. The rider has to try to get on the donkey again.

	In the ring and totally off course. These donkeys have ideas of their own.

	This was one long race. We didn't get to see who won before leaving. There were more races and we are sure, more laughs.