High-Risk Equine Competitions: Centuries-old Native American Horse Racing Traditions Put to the Test
Updated Report: America's Original Extreme Sport: Indian Relay
The horse has been a integral part of the history and folklore of numerous Native American tribes, including the Shoshone, Crow, Blackfeet, Sioux, and more. These tribes, also known as the "Horse Nations," first encountered horses when Spanish explorers brought them to the Americas 500 years ago. Since then, they have utilized horses in hunting and as war mounts.
One unique aspect of these tribes is their participation in a sport known as Indian Relay, which fans have dubbed "America's original extreme sport." The roots of this exhilarating, hazardous, and inspiring event can be traced back centuries and is among the most captivating sights one is likely to witness.
The race begins with six swift thoroughbred racehorses standing at the starting line, which is drawn in the dirt. Unlike traditional horse racing, there are no saddles or stirrups, and the riders wear no protective gear. At the sound of a horn, the riders mount their horses and dash down the track.
"To actually get on a horse bareback and run as fast as you can is easy," said Ken Real Bird, an announcer renowned in the Indian Relay community. However, the real challenge comes after the riders complete one lap around the half-mile track. They then speed into a sort of horse pit row where teammates await with fresh horses for the exchange.
Real Bird described the exchange process: "He has to come in, gear down enough, and then angle that horse in. He gets off and takes one, two, three steps, and he's onto the back of that horse. Boom, there he goes." Real Bird makes it sound simple, but in reality, it's a dangerous and chaotic dance, as teams from multiple races attempt similar maneuvers at the same time.
The exchange is the crux of the race; Any missteps can result in injuries for both the riders and horses. Each squad relies on a setup man and a nimble crewmember to ensure the horses are in position for the exchange. According to Real Bird, "You have a guy who's usually a nimble guy on his feet. And he's gotta catch that horse coming in at 15 miles an hour. That horse, he really doesn't care about your feelings."
Indian Relay races experienced a turning point in the early 1900s, when they were brought into the mainstream instead of being confined to native communities. Today, the sport is a celebration of tribal culture, showcasing song, drum, and dance, as well as offering substantial prize money.
In addition to the men's competition, there is a women's division that consists of two laps and two horses instead of the traditional three-and-three. A kids' division also exists, featuring children as young as six racing on ponies, displaying their innate horsemanship.
For many Native American youth, the sport offers a chance to reconnect with their heritage and culture. Some riders have shared how their bond with the horse has been instrumental in overcoming personal challenges and emotional turmoil. For instance, Mason Red Wing mentioned how the horse helped him rediscover his native identity and take pride in his roots, which had previously been overshadowed by issues like alcoholism, drug abuse, and suicide, common themes in native communities.
Organizers and participants view Indian Relay as an honor and a reverence to the brave warriors of their ancestry. As Ken Real Bird explained, "It is how we connect to the warriors of the past, the warriors of 200 years ago. It's that same bloodline of that warrior that is [pulsating] through their blood."
Tribal traditions and teamwork are integral aspects of Indian Relay, which is grounded in a rich history of daring exploits and horsemanship within Native American communities. Modern Indian Relay competitions reflect this heritage while incorporating a contemporary twist, captivating audiences with their thrilling demonstrations of speed, agility, and tribal pride.
News: Indian Relay, a high-risk, captivating sport originating from Native American tribes, continues to showcase horsemanship and cultural heritage.
Sports enthusiasts can now enjoy horse-racing competitions unlike any other, with the Indian Relay offering not only nail-biting races butalso a celebration of tribal culture, music, dance, and the strong bond between riders and their horses.
