On a scorching August day, spirited Thoroughbreds toss their heads while their hooves pound a lively rhythm into the freshly harrowed sand. The booming voice of the announcer signals the start, drawing spectators to the white rail fence lining the track at Onion Lake Cree Nation’s Heritage Park, just 50 kilometers north of Lloydminster on the Saskatchewan border. The atmosphere is buzzing with anticipation as the fifth and final day of Indian Relay Racing is about to kick off.
Race organizer Candy Jackson expressed her gratitude for the overwhelming support, noting the packed stands and the participation of 14 exceptional and modest teams. Indian Relay Racing is a team competition where riders complete three bareback laps on different horses, requiring intense exchanges as they dismount, touch the ground with both feet, and swiftly mount the next horse.
Collisions, unpredictable horses, and falls can swiftly alter the course of a race, adding to the excitement of the sport. Over the past decade, Indian Relay Racing has been steadily gaining popularity across the Prairies, with races becoming popular summer events attracting large crowds and offering substantial cash prizes.
Tyson Head, a seasoned farrier from Mistawasis, Saskatchewan, shared his experience of witnessing the sport evolve over the years. He highlighted the increase in fan support and significant prize money, with the number of teams participating growing from 16 to over 40. This surge in interest has attracted more sponsors, fueling further growth and participation in the sport.
While the expansion of Indian Relay Racing brings numerous benefits, Jackson raised concerns about the potential downsides of its increasing popularity. She emphasized the importance of preserving the sport’s roots in unity and family, ensuring that cultural values are upheld amidst the competitive nature of the races.
Jackson’s commitment to maintaining cultural connections is evident in her race events, which begin with a traditional pipe ceremony and prayers. Riders like cousins Kyla and Kayden Stanley from Onion Lake Cree Nation also incorporate prayers and smudging rituals for themselves and their horses before each race, emphasizing the significance of tradition and spirituality in their approach to the sport.
Beyond the allure of cash prizes and championship titles, each rider’s journey in Indian Relay Racing is a testament to staying true to tradition and honoring their heritage. Many riders, especially the younger generation, have overcome personal challenges, with Jackson emphasizing the healing and empowering spirit that the horses bring to the riders, allowing them to embrace their roles as true warriors in the sport.