Puerto Vallarta, Mexico - After Spain conquered and colonized Tenochtitlan (Mexico), the use of the horses was reserved exclusively for the Spanish. They were afraid that if the Indians discovered one of their key secrets in the fight for the conquest, they would use it against them.

Around this time, Sebastian Aparicio, a holy man, bought the Hacienda de Careaga (Careaga Ranch) and dedicated it to agriculture and ranching, and introduced the Indians working on his ranch to this activity, even though it was still forbidden by the vice royalty of the New Spain. And thus was born a new trade known as Charrería – the art of horsemanship - an activity that became highly popular.

Little by little the popularity and skill of Charrería grew, primarily due to the increased use of horses among the inhabitants of this country. The ranch owners or hacendados and their closer servants showed off their skills working with the horses and accomplishing complex maneuvers with expertise and courage. Later these maneuvers would become what now is known as Suertes Charras.

Professional Charrería was born in 1880 with the famous Charro Ponciano, known by his feats told in Mexican popular songs. Ponciano Díaz had the first cattle ranch in America and greatly boosted the fame of the Charrería, turning it into a courageous and skillful show worthy of admiration.

Charrería has been the subject of poems, songs, artists, historians and anyone interested in the Mexican culture. It has been declared Mexico’s National Sport and every September 14th El Día del Charro (Charro Day) is celebrated.

A local group of Charros have made an extraordinary effort to bring the 1st National Charro Championships to Puerto Vallarta. The event will feature the best 24 Charro Associations in the country, making this a true celebration of Mexico.

The event will inaugurate the city's new Arena Vallarta, an ultra-modern facility that comprises 10 acres. The handicap accessible arena boasts seating for 5 thousand spectators, public rest rooms, a 600 car parking lot, a commercial area and stables for the horses.

The First National Charro Championship will take place in the city's new facilities from January 26-30th, with daily competitions and traditional events. A perfect way to enjoy the real Mexico and its traditions.

National Charro Championship Program:

Thursday, January 26, 2012
3 pm: Arena Vallarta Inauguration
7 pm: Charro Competitions
8:30 pm: Traditional Mexican Fería on the Malecón in downtown Puerto Vallarta

Friday, January 27
11 am: Charro Competitions
10:30 pm: Party on the Malecón

Saturday, January 28
11 am-8:30 pm: Charro Competitions

Sunday, January 29
11 am: Charro Competition Semi Finals
3:30 pm: Charro Competition Finals

Monday, January 30
TBA: Gala de Charreada - a gala event featuring the best Charro teams performing daring tricks and acrobatics. Prizes will be given to the most proficient performers.

The prizes for the 1st National Championship are very attractive, so some of Mexico's best Charro associations will be coming to Puerto Vallarta to compete in the city's new facilities, which will surely become a preferred venue for future Charro events.