by Darmon Richter

Created on: June 18, 2009

The Charreada is a form of rodeo, originating in Mexico, and based on the working practices of their traditional cowboys: the charros. These horsemen were particularly prevalent in the State of Jalisco, and were famed for their colourful clothing; usually consisting of wide hats, ponchos and waistcoats, often in elaborate patterns of green, red or gold.

The practice of the Charreada was developed after the break-up of the haciendas by the Mexican Revolution, a time when charro practices were beginning to die out. In 1921, the charros met and formed the Asociacin Nacional de Charros, and the Charreada became an increasingly popular competition in Mexico. It wasn't until the 1970s that the practice was established in the US, where it has met with some criticism, with a number of events such as Forefooting and Steer Tailing being banned.

Competitors in a Charreada wear the traditional charro clothing, and events usually commence with a horseback procession, often to the sound of a Mariachi marching band. Participants are judged on grace and finesse, rather than being timed as in American rodeo. Prizes normally take the form of trophies, rather than monetary rewards.

Usually the competition is held in an arena consisting of a lane measuring around 12 by 60 metres, leading into a ring 40 metres in diameter. Two or more teams (known as 'asociaciones') compete against one another for the honour of becoming state, regional, or national champions. The competition consists of ten events; a series of nine for men, with an extra event called the 'escaramuza' now included for female competitors. These events are as follows;

Reining (Cala de Caballo)

Each participant is required to put his horse through various commands, demonstrating his ability and the horse's training.

Heeling (Piales en Lienzo)

Each horseman has three chances at throwing a lariat after a wild mare, which they have to catch by the hind legs. Points are awarded according to the distance required to catch the mare.

Steer Tailing (Colas en el Lienzo, or Coleadero)

The charro rides alongside a bull, and must bring it down into a roll by wrapping its tail tightly around his leg as he passes it. In this particularly dangerous event, points are awarded for speed and technique.

Bull Riding (Jineteo de Toro)

In this event riders must stay mounted on a small bull until it has stopped bucking. The charro must not fall off, but retain control of the animal, dismounting, and removing the bullrope.

• 1
• 2
• Next Page >>