Omak

In recent years Omak has been criticized by animal lovers for its mid-August Omak Stampede and Suicide Race. During the annual event, wild horses race down a steep bluff and across the Okanogan River. Some horses have been killed and riders seriously injured. Most of the riders are from the Colville Reservation, and elders defend the race as part of Indian culture. Despite the detractors, more spectators attend the event each year.