Movie To Showcase Fair’s Indian Relays

Many people turn out at the Eastern Idaho State Fair for the Indian Relay Races. However, few know that it?s the best Indian relay in the country and has quite the history.

?It started clear back 1800s,? Leo Teton said. ?This is where we originated right here and in Fort Hall. So it’s kind of traveled all over the place; it’s a popular event.

Teton is quite a legend around the fair after starting Indian Relay back in the early 80s.

?I got too old, so I broke some of my nephews in. It’s a family thing. It’s in our blood; it’s always going to be in our blood, so my grandkids are going to pass it on,? Teton said.

Now he likes to enjoy the race from off the track where the competition is tough. Narsis Reevis won the first race of the day but wasn’t too surprised.

?I expect to win every time,? Reevis said laughing.

It?s a lot of hard work.

?(There?s) a lot of training, a lot of time but if you love the sport it all works out,? Reevis said.

And it?s also dangerous.

?Man, you better look out cause there’s broken bones. I had my dislocated shoulder, concussions, nosebleeds. You ride the next day, you get bucked off you got to get back on,? Teton said.

This year, it’s attracted attention from documentary makers at PBS who are going to bring the fair favorite to a national audience.

?Indian Relay is awesome. If you haven’t seen it you can’t describe it in words. These races are going race,? project director for Montana PBS Charles Dye said.

But for the jockeys, it’s all about the love of the sport.

?Just like any other athlete, you get so pumped up for a football game, basketball game, it’s something that you love,? Reevis said.

And if you think you can take the action, they welcome the competition.

?Jump off a horse full blast and stay on your feet. You’re welcome to come race with us,? Reevis said.

There are races every day this week and the competition is expected to heat up.

And if you can’t make it to the races, the documentary will be coming out next June.