The Enduring Love for Horses: How Native Americans Have Shaped the Rodeo

Rodeo appears to be a contemporary sport, but its origins are deeply entrenched in the customs of Native American culture. In the heart of Indian Country, the enduring affinity for horses and the passion for horsemanship has given rise to rodeo competitions that now enthrall audiences nationwide.

From the Navajo Nation to the Crow reservation in Montana, Native Americans have maintained a profound connection with horses for many years. The sport of rodeo has provided a platform for them to demonstrate their expertise in roping, riding, and wrangling livestock, serving as a celebration of their rich history and proficiency in horsemanship.

The extensive involvement of Native Americans in rodeos is dispelling stereotypes and reinforcing their proud legacy. It has developed into a manifestation of joy and celebration for the people in the rodeo world, enabling them to achieve economic success and, more importantly, derive happiness from their craft.

One such emerging figure in the realm of rodeo is 17-year-old Najiah Knight, a Paiute from the Klamath Tribes, who aspires to become the first female bull rider to compete on the Professional Bull Riders tour. Her journey bears witness to the deeply ingrained equestrian culture in Indian Country, with numerous others like her originating from small towns, where riding livestock is an age-old tradition.

Ed Holyan, the rodeo coach at Diné College in Tsaile, Arizona, fondly reminisces about his upbringing on the Navajo Nation, where he and his brother would often spend their days tending to sheep and refining their rodeo skills. This close bond with horses and the rodeo world was simply a part of their upbringing, emphasising how the love for horses resonates deeply within their heritage.

Likewise, Kennard Real Bird, a former saddle bronc rider, discovered liberation in horses while growing up on the Crow reservation in Montana. This profound connection with horses led him to a career as a stock contractor and rodeo announcer, where he now combines observational comedy with his enthusiasm for riding.

The spirit of rodeo in Indian Country also pays homage to the rich history of the tribes. The Indian Relay Races, held in July, are deeply rooted in the buffalo hunts on the Great Plains, adding an additional layer of cultural significance to the thrill of the sport. Watching these races is not just a demonstration of athletic prowess, but also a celebration of the history and traditions of the tribes.

Tribal colleges and universities have also played a pivotal role in preserving the horse culture by offering programs in equine studies and horsemanship. The Nueta Hidatsa Sahnish College, situated on the Fort Berthold reservation, has integrated Great Plains horsemanship into its curriculum, ensuring that the traditions are passed down to future generations.

The paramount event for Native rodeo competitors is the Indian National Finals Rodeo, held in Las Vegas. Here, tribal regalia, blessings from elders, and flag songs that serve as tribes’ national anthems are just as much a part of the competition as the grand buckles and cowboy hats.

The love for horses and the sport of rodeo has not only been a source of joy and economic success for Native Americans, but also a means through which they have upheld their heritage and traditions. As 17-year-old Tydon Tsosie, the winner of the “Navajo Nation Steer Wrestling Capital” event, proudly proclaims, the love for rodeo spans generations and is a lifelong commitment for many, ensuring that the enduring relationship with horses continues to thrive in Indian Country.