SAN ANTONIO — The oldest recognized Charro association in San Antonio is celebrating 79 years of tradition this weekend.
The San Antonio Charro Association was founded in 1947 to preserve and pass on the culture of charreria, the tradition of the charros or “gentlemen horsemen.” The tradition has roots in sixteenth-century Spanish conquistadores and are credited as the forerunners to the American rodeo.
In 1959, the organization purchased ten acres adjacent to Mission County Park on San Antonio’s south side and the improvements to the ranch eventually provided a setting for their charreadas. The competitions include events to showcase the horses’ agility, team roping, bull and bronco riding, and opportunities for riders to show their skill with a lasso.
Saturday, teams from all over Texas joined in on the celebration at the organization’s ranch at 6126 Padre Drive. The celebration continues Sunday with the first group starting at 10 a.m. Tickets for adults are $20 and children 12 and under are free.