Behind the scenes at the world’s largest falcon race In Saudi Arabia, ancient tradition and modern technology meet as falconers take on a new approach to an age-old practice. At the annual King Abdulaziz Falconry Festival in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, falconers from around the world queue up to participate in competitive high-stakes falcon races.Photograph courtesy VIRTUE Worldwide Published July 27, 2021 Email This content is brought to you by our partner. It does not necessarily reflect the views of National Geographic or its editorial staff. 2:01 At the annual King Abdulaziz Falconry festival in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, falconers carry an ancient living heritage forward, applying age-old falconry techniques to new purposes, like pageants and races.Video courtesy Virtue Worldwide