For nearly five years, a team of riders in San Ysidro have worked hard to preserve a Mexican national sport in San Diego: charrería.
Twice a week the riders, known as charros, meet at Rancho La Laguna to practice. They also host competitions and community events to expose more people to the sport. But now they are worried a proposed ban on rodeos could threaten their existence.
Voice intern Juan Estrada visited the ranch and spoke to members of the team. Read the full story here.
Photos by Ariana Drehsler for Voice of San Diego.
Gianna Jara at Rancho La Laguna in San Ysidro on March 28, 2024. The women and girls who participate in the sport are known as escaramuzas.
(Left to right) Members of the Rancho La Laguna prepare for a monthly meeting at the ranch on April 6, 2024. Two riders watch as anther gets ready to practice a skill on March 28, 2024.
Raudel Jiménez during practice at Rancho La Laguna in San Ysidro on March 28, 2024.
Team members of the Escaramuza Realeza Charra during practice at Rancho La Laguna in San Ysidro on March 28, 2024.
Ramon Jara, captain of Charros Rancho La Laguna, during practice on March 28, 2024. Jara specializes in manganas a pie – an event where a charro ropes a horse from the ground.
