Running Indian Relay Race goes Aug. 12

Brady Grove, Times Reporter

Siksika Nation is hosting their third Running Indian Relay Race on Aug. 12 as part of the Siksika Nation Fair.
The eight-mile race will test riders’ endurance and perseverance as they battle against the terrain, fatigue and each other.
“It’s a simple race but you have to have a good horse sense,” said event coordinator Carlon Big Snake. “There’s a lot of obstacles out there so you better hang on tight to your horse.”
Participants will navigate through trees, water and hills during the cross-country race.
The event is broken down into four separate two-mile legs, spread out across the sand hills region. At each two-mile interval, competitors will reach an exchange point and switch horses. Four horses will be used per rider.
According to Big Snake, the race is a tribute to the past when the indigenous population used horses for everything from hunting to moving camp. Riders will be in traditional indigenous regalia and will ride bareback, just like the old days.
“Back then, they never had thoroughbred breeds, there wasn’t a race track,” said Big Snake. “This is the real McCoy.”
Racers have to pay a $150 entry fee, but the chance for glory is high. Siksika Nation has put up some big prizes, with first place taking home $2,000 plus a sweater or jacket. Cash prizes of $1,500, $1,000 and $500 will be given to the riders who place second to fourth.
First responders will be on quads following the riders in case of emergency.
“We look at safety first for all participants and the animals,” said Big Snake.