About the Horse Nations Indian Relay Council

The Horse Nations Indian Relay Council (HNIRC) brings together the Horse Nations of the Plains to preserve, promote, and expand the thrilling tradition of Indian Relay Racing — a sport that showcases Native horsemanship, teamwork, courage, and cultural pride.

Leading riders and teams from Tribal Nations across Idaho, Montana, North Dakota, South Dakota, Washington, Oregon, Arizona, Wyoming, and Canada compete in one of the most exciting equestrian events in North America. Each relay team consists of one rider, three horses, one mugger, and two holders, all working together in a breathtaking test of speed, precision, and trust. Riding bareback and making lightning-fast horse exchanges, competitors demonstrate extraordinary athleticism and courage, while Chiefs, Warriors, and Maidens also compete for individual honors.

As American Cowboy magazine observed, the combination of dramatic horse exchanges, split-second timing, and occasional spectacular spills is helping Indian Relay Racing fill grandstands throughout the West. It is a sport unlike any other — fast, authentic, and unforgettable.

For many Native youth, relay racing represents more than competition. As relay champion Calvin Ghost Bear explains, it reflects the warrior spirit and the lifelong bond between horse and rider. HNIRC is committed to nurturing that tradition by encouraging young riders, some as young as six years old, through youth relay programs that develop horsemanship, confidence, discipline, and respect for Native culture.

HNIRC's leadership brings decades of experience organizing relay races throughout the western United States, from local reservation events and county fairs to major regional championships. Every event celebrates Native traditions while providing spectators with an exhilarating experience that keeps them coming back year after year.