Racing Llamas for a Cause.

• Position: THE BIG PICTURE

For the indigenous people of Ecuador's highlands, llama racing is a rite of passage. In February, about 20 Kids ages 4 to 12 dressed up in ponchos and riding pants (called zamarros) and gathered at Llanganates National Park for a competition known as Llaminqada. Llamas are important to the community, as they're often used to transport goods or help in the fields. And their padded feet allow them to cross through the area's 850 square miles of wetlands without causing damage, unlike other animals. The goal of the annual race is to raise awareness among indigenous people about the park, which is home to roughly 300...