Becoming a tradition in it's own time, the Fiesta held in Alturas, California, continues to attract some of the finest horsemen around...steeped in the traditions known as the Californios, with strict adherence to rules that insure the well being of cattle, horse and horsemen alike, the competition began. And no better spot, then Alturas, Ca., to showcase the history and traditions of the Vaquero.
Alturas is tucked into the north east corner of California..Modoc County..a distance to drive no matter what area you are coming from. For me, a 14 hour trip. But oh so worth it. The Fiesta, is founded on the belief that the traditions of old, are applicable today, and adhering to these time worn traditions, produces a competent comfortable horse. Shunning the use of Snaffle Bits, in this competition, you will see horses in the Jaquima, the Two Rein, or the traditional "straight up" in the bridle..Horsemanship is key, at this event. The judges insist oh humane treatment of both cattle and in the handling of horses.
To compete in the Jaquima classes, your horse would be 5 years old, and younger the Two Rein, the age of the horse is 5-9, and a horse in the Bridle, must be 7 and older. Traditional gear, used in all events, and 60 ft. reata's used in all open divisions. This even is not for sissys. Interesting the things that would get you disqualified...in ALL classes..not using a get down rope, or leading a horse by his reins. any choking of the cattle, or 2 hands used on the bridle reins.. With the ground rules laid down, Friday night, in the arena, everyone was eager for the Saturday morning sessions. The morning brought Open Doctoring, then lunch, events ranged from Intermediate Stock horse, to cut n rope, and open stock horse. Zeb Burroughs won the Dave Beagle saddle this year, as top hand...a voted on by peers award. It was well deserved. Part of the fun of this family oriented event is seeing the guys come back the following year, with the gear they have won, incorporated into their using gear.

As you sift thru the photos, you will see more and more women competing, and they really do hold their own in these events..what they lack in strength they make up for in moxie, and skill. So fun to watch them rope. Everyone enjoys the dummy roping, for kids, and Tate the Gate was pretty handy this year.

The Fiesta in Alturas is becoming a summer destination for many of the top riders in the country, and no wonder with the famed Bobby Ingersoll judging, and money as well as prizes given.

Richard Caldwell, won top prizes, a Steve Harris Bosal, and his son in law, Weston, took home top prizes as well, a Linda Doyle silver headstall. As always, an auction was held to benefit a needy family, and although the family that received the donation was never announced, (Amee Caldwell Albrect said that the family had yet to be determined) you can check with her or the Vaquero Horsemanships home page to determine the amount the auctions brought in, and also the family that was to receive the amount..less seed money for next year's event. For next years Fiesta, check on the Caldwells site, Vaquero Horsemanship, for the dates....

Put the sleepy little town of Alturas on your calendar for next year..historically the first week in August. This is a fun filled weekend, if you are in to traditional Bridle horse methodology, reata roping, and good old fashioned fun, this is the place for you, and worth the drive!