Update - 2026 Turtle Race Cancelled by Douglas County Fair

On the afternoon of 7/9/2026, the Douglas County Fair Board cancelled the turtle race previously planned for 8/1/2026. 

The cancellation was confirmed via phone to me by Candace Lavalette, the executive administrator of the fair’s board. Ms. Lavalette stated that it will make decisions about any future races on a year by year basis. 

Kudos to Douglas County, KS for prioritizing the well-being of the animals over entertainment by cancelling this year’s race. Thank you to those of you who voiced your concern about the turtles racing. 

Note:

Ms. Lavalette also stated that the photos on the petition were not reflective of the Douglas County, KS fair. Because of this, the one photo included on the petition that was not taken directly from the fair’s Facebook page has been replaced with an image of a relaxed box turtle that is not being forced to race.