Indian Relay horse race dubbed “America's original extreme sport” | 60 Minutes

Summary

The video explores the significance of horses in the history and culture of various Native American tribes, highlighting the thrilling sport of Indian relay. Originating from horse-stealing raids, this extreme sport features riders jumping between bareback horses in a chaotic race. The event celebrates tribal culture, showcasing the athleticism and dedication of participants, including youth and women. As the sport gains popularity, it serves as a powerful means for Native American youth to reconnect with their heritage and find purpose, demonstrating the enduring bond between riders and their horses.

Takeaways

• 🐴 The horse has played a vital role in the history and culture of many Native American tribes, known collectively as The Horse Nations.
• 🏇 Indian relay racing is regarded as America's original extreme sport, involving bareback riding and dangerous horse exchanges.
• 🔥 The sport's roots date back centuries, originating from horse-stealing raids among tribes, which evolved into organized races in the early 1900s.
• ⚡ Each race features multiple teams racing against each other, with as many as six riders competing simultaneously.
• 👩‍👧 Indian relay racing fosters strong community bonds, with families like Irvin Carlson and his son Chaz competing together over the years.
• 💰 The sport is gaining popularity, with significant prize money being offered at championship events, showcasing tribal culture through song and dance.
• 🌟 Personal stories from competitors reveal how involvement in Indian relay helps young Native Americans reconnect with their culture and identity.
• 🏅 A women's division in Indian relay highlights the inclusivity and athleticism of female riders, promoting empowerment within the sport.
• 🌄 The championship event in Casper, Wyoming, marks the culmination of the summer circuit and celebrates tribal heritage on a larger stage.
• 💔 Many participants, like Mason Redwing, express how the sport and their connection to horses can provide a sense of purpose and combat challenges in their communities.

Q & A

What role did horses play in the history of Native American tribes?

Horses have been central to the history and mythology of many Native American tribes, primarily used in hunting and battle since they were introduced by Spaniards over 500 years ago.

What is Indian Relay, and why is it considered an extreme sport?

Indian Relay is a traditional sport involving teams of riders racing on Thoroughbred horses without saddles or stirrups. It is dubbed America's original extreme sport due to the high speed, risk of injury, and the dramatic exchanges between horses.

What are the basic rules of Indian Relay racing?

In Indian Relay, teams race around a half-mile track. After completing a lap, riders leap off their horse and onto a fresh one, which requires precise timing and coordination among team members.

What historical events influenced the development of Indian Relay as a sport?

The roots of Indian Relay trace back to horse-stealing raids that tribes conducted against settlers and each other, which involved racing and exchanging stolen horses.

How has Indian Relay evolved in modern times?

Indian Relay has evolved into an organized sport with competitions held across the West, culminating in championship events with significant prize money, promoting tribal culture and community involvement.

What is the significance of the Horse Nations Indian Relay Council?

The Horse Nations Indian Relay Council works to bring traditional races from tribal communities into the mainstream, promoting awareness and appreciation of the sport and the cultures it represents.

What challenges do participants face in Indian Relay racing?

Participants face numerous challenges, including the risk of injury from falls or collisions with other horses and riders, as well as the physical demands of racing and exchanging horses at high speeds.

What role do youth play in Indian Relay, and how do they benefit from it?

Youth participate in Indian Relay, including a kids' division, which fosters skills, athleticism, and a connection to cultural heritage, helping them develop confidence and pride in their identity.

How does the sport of Indian Relay connect participants to their cultural heritage?

Indian Relay connects participants to their cultural heritage by emphasizing the importance of horses in tribal history, fostering community bonds, and honoring the traditions of their ancestors through competitive racing.

What impact do horses have on the lives of young Native Americans, according to the participants?

Participants believe that horses can provide a sense of purpose and identity, helping young Native Americans reconnect with their culture and community, and can even serve as a positive outlet in the face of challenges like addiction and depression.