Relay racing, a thrilling Indigenous equestrian sport, has rapidly become one of the most popular events at the Calgary Stampede since its introduction in 2017. The sport, rooted in Plains Nations traditions, features teams of riders racing around a track, dismounting and leaping onto fresh horses without saddles at high speed.
Growing Popularity and Excitement
“A lot of people haven’t seen it, and it’s damn exciting,” said Jesse Carlson of Browning, Montana, a rider for the Two Medicine team. The relay races draw large crowds eager to witness the unique blend of speed, horsemanship, and teamwork.
Kaleal Jackson, a relay racer from Goodfish Lake, Alberta, expressed pride in competing: “Really honoured to be here. It’s the Greatest Outdoor Show on Earth. There are a lot of fans, so it’s really good to showcase our talent, who we are as people and how far the sport has come.”
History and Cultural Significance
Relay racing was added to the Calgary Stampede in 2017, with the Lady Warrior races introduced in 2023. The sport carries deep cultural significance, celebrating Indigenous heritage while showcasing athleticism and generations of horsemanship passed down through Indigenous communities.
“My grandpa started Carlson Relay in 1982. We went on a lot of races over a lot of years, grinding away and not making any money back in the day. You raced for $200 and some trash-talking rights,” Carlson said.
Jackson added, “My papa Sam and his boy, Corey Jackson, who is my uncle, introduced us to it. You see a lot of boys with the last name Jackson, and that’s who we all learned from.”
Lady Warriors and Future Broadcast
Lady Warrior racer Shayla from Frog Lake, Alberta, described the experience: “It’s really exciting, and it’s really nerve-racking racing in front of these large crowds.”
The growing popularity has led to national television coverage. This year, following the chuckwagon races, relay racing will be broadcast on TV across Canada, bringing the sport to an even wider audience.
