A bareback Indian Relay Race rider is seen in August 2024 at the Medicine Hat Exhibition & Stampede's inaugural event at the Grandstand. The chaotically entertaining races are back in the Hat this weekend.-- NEWS FILE PHOTO
newsdesk@medicinehatnews.com
Without saddles, stirrups or any protective gear, some of the top Indian Relay Horse racers will compete at the Medicine Hat Exhibition & Stampede this weekend for the second year of Indian Relay Racing.
The exciting sport pays homage to the spiritual importance of horses for hundreds of years in Indigenous culture used for hunting, transportation and in battle.
The relay races kick off with the sound of a horn and from the starting line, up to five riders on different thoroughbred horses race bareback around the half-mile track.
After one lap, all riders must switch horses and continue racing a second lap. The switch-over is similar to a race car pit-stop, however instead of cars, it is horses with a mind of their own, and anything can happen.
This is known as the ‘exchange’ and can be performed in a matter of seconds by the top riders, however it presents dangers due to the number of horses entering and leaving the ‘pit-stop’ area.
Typically, the entertainment and thrill arrives in plentiful supply, as crashes, falls and even injuries are a natural part of Indian Relay Racing. It is the reason why the relay races have been dubbed ‘America’s original extreme sport,’ as it continues to grow in popularity in the Western U.S.
The team that completes three laps the fastest wins the relay race.
Typically riders, as well as their horses, can be seen wearing face and body paint as part of their regalia.
The Teepee Village will also be open throughout the weekend and will include bannock making, beading and leatherwork demonstrations in front of the Grandstand.
The Indigenous Artisan Market will also be open in the Grandstand Ballroom, and the Heard of the Horse World Class Equine Expo will run in the Fieldhouse.
Tickets are available online at tickets.mhstampede.com, or will be sold at the grandstand for $25. Racing action begins Saturday at 6 p.m., and then 1:30 p.m on Sunday.
