Key Facts
The Indian Relay is a real Native American sport featured in Yellowstone's Season 2 episode 'Touching Your Enemy.' The event involves riders mounting horses bareback, taking a lap, then leaping onto another horse—all without protective gear. It originated in the early 20th century and is now a large-scale competition uniting tribes across the Rocky Mountain West.
Details of the Indian Relay
In the episode, Monica (Kelsey Asbille) and her students join physical therapist Martin (Martin Sensmeier) at an Indian Relay practice. Martin explains, 'Becoming a man requires bravery witnessed by others. Not just words, actions.' This reflects the tradition's roots in Native coming-of-age ceremonies. The modern relay began in the early 20th century, initially confined to reservations but later organized into a championship event. Today, multi-day competitions are held annually in Wyoming, drawing teams from Montana, Idaho, Wyoming, Washington, Oregon, the Dakotas, and Canada.
Impact on Native American Representation
Yellowstone has helped bring Native American customs to mainstream audiences. Co-creator Taylor Sheridan prioritized authenticity, filming on a real Montana reservation. Former Crow Nation tribal chairman Alvin 'A.J.' Not Afraid, Jr. told Variety, 'How they portray [Native Americans] is a lot more realistic than other shows.' The show also highlighted issues like land battles and reservation socio-economics. However, some ceremonies, like Kayce Dutton's vision quest in Season 4, sparked debate. Lakota cast member Mo Brings Plenty defended the portrayal, stating, 'We have not given anything away. If you go on Google, you will find a whole lot more about ceremony than what we revealed.'
What Readers Should Know
- The Indian Relay is a real sport with deep cultural significance.
- Yellowstone's depiction was praised for authenticity by Native leaders.
- The show consulted Native advisors to ensure respectful representation.
- Some ceremonies were kept private to protect sacred traditions.
FAQ
Is the Indian Relay in Yellowstone a real event?
Yes, the Indian Relay is a real Native American sport that originated in the early 20th century and is still practiced by tribes across the Rocky Mountain West.
What is the Indian Relay?
The Indian Relay is a bareback horse race where riders take a lap, leap off their horse, and mount another, all without protective gear. It honors coming-of-age traditions.
Which tribes participate in the Indian Relay?
Tribes from Montana, Idaho, Wyoming, Washington, Oregon, the Dakotas, and Canada participate in the Indian Relay.
How did Yellowstone portray Native American culture?
Yellowstone aimed for authenticity by filming on a real Montana reservation and consulting Native advisors, though some ceremonies were kept private.