A Mexican friend said we just had to go to a Charreada, she really loves it. It is a competition for cowboys and cowgirls, who compete in teams from different haciendas. It was very interesting for us to experience this part of Mexican culture…sombreros, horses, bulls, lassos, spurs, mariachi bands, tequila, pickup trucks.
If you’re not interested in these things, then stop reading now.
Yes this is about macho Mexican men taming wild beasts and quite simply, showing off.
Press play before checking out the photos, to get a sense of the atmosphere.
Facts about Charreria
- Charreria is the national sport of Mexico.
- Charreria is the name of the skills Charros demonstrate in competitions, known as Charreadas.
- It originated in the Salamanca area of Spain and was brought to Mexico by the colonisers in the 16th century. Originally indigenous Mexicans were not allowed to ride horses as a means to control them. However as the need for cattle herders grew the colonisers looked to indigenous Mexicans to manage the animals.
- Mexicans quickly proved themselves to be as good as or better than the Spaniards on horseback and are thought to be the founders of Charreria.
- In the 19th century Charreadas took place in Mexico City and southern states like Texas. Americans began to take part in these competitions and it eventually evolved into Rodeo.
- Charreria, unlike Rodeo, is a team sport and features competing teams from different haciendas. It is illegal for prize money to be awarded, but instead teams compete for equipment.
- The popularity of Charreria fell during and after the Mexican revolution (1910 – 1920) and to make sure this tradition was not lost the National Association of Charros was set up in 1921. They also recorded the rules and regulations which are now followed in all legal competitions.
- A Charreada includes 9 events for men and 1 for women, and includes cows and horses.
There are several events in a Charreada that are opposed by animal rights groups as they are deemed to be cruel to animals. Once such event is when Charros jump from one horse onto the back of a wild horse and ride it until it is exhausted. 3 other Charros ride alongside the horse keeping it penned up across the wall of the ring and pushing it to gallop faster and faster.
There is an ongoing debate in Mexico and the southern States of America about which is more important, the welfare of the animals or the upkeep of a Mexican tradition that is almost 500 years old.
Website with information on upcoming Charreradas.
