1.
GV. Spectators at camel fight.
0.03

2.
SV. Fight in progress.
0.11

3.
LV. Camel forcing other's neck to the ground.
0.15

4.
SV. Spectators and members of Government.
0.17

5.
SV. Fight in progress: camel forces other's head to ground.
0.34

6.
SV. Owners.
0.37

7.
SV. Women spectators.
0.40

8.
SV. Fight in progress.
0.45

9.
SV. Victor holds other camel's head to ground.
0.54

10.
LV. Ditto.
0.56

11.
CU. Owners argue on result.
1.00



Initials EHR/S/WS/CW



Script is copyright Reuters Limited. All rights reserved

Background: Camel fighting broke out in Kairouan, Tunisia, Jan 16. The battle was watched by members of the Government - standing at a safe distance away. The fight, however, was not political! No mention of imperialism, world peace or Arab nationalism.

The camel fight is a Tunisian sport...and the politicians were merely there as spectators. With an ample supply of camels in North Africa, camel owners frequently arrange fights, though this is not so much a national sport. Camel fights are held mainly in Southern Tunisia, but some do take place in the northern area.

A camel relies on its neck for fighting (after all, you have got to keep your head). Each try to pin down the necks of their opponents. Betting takes place among the camel owners; and members of the crowd, too, place stakes on the "favourites". However, there are no big competitions with set prize sums.

The results frequently cause arguments: but then this is a sport where fighting is the source of enjoyment.