Puerto Vallarta Revives Its Tradition with the Municipal School of Charrería
In an effort to preserve one of Mexico’s most representative traditions, the Municipal School of Charrería in Puerto Vallarta will begin operations on December 15 at the iconic Miguel Prieto Ibarria Charro Arena. Boys, girls, and young people aged 8 to 18 will be the stars of this initiative, which not only promotes the national sport but also instills the cultural essence of our land in the new generations.
The official announcement took place at an event filled with pride and promise, where regional and national charrería authorities joined local government representatives to unveil the project. In an emotional setting, Mayor Luis Ernesto Munguía highlighted the importance of this school as a breeding ground for talent that will carry Puerto Vallarta’s name to local and national tournaments.
A Tradition with a Future
Charrería, recognized as Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity by UNESCO, is much more than a sport—it is a symbol of identity blending skill, music, and passion. During the presentation, Daniel Armando Ibarria, president of the Puerto Vallarta Charros Association, emphasized that this effort aims to preserve this heritage and pass it on to new generations in an educational and competitive environment.
Meanwhile, Salvador Barajas del Toro, president of the Mexican Federation of Charrería, affirmed that initiatives like this strengthen the sport nationally and help communities like ours remain connected to their roots.
An Inclusive Project
One of the most notable aspects of the school is its commitment to inclusion. While the monthly fee will be 600 pesos, socio-economic evaluations will be conducted to offer scholarships covering up to 100%, ensuring that no child or young person with a passion for charrería is left out.
Initially, the school will admit 60 students, who will attend classes on Mondays and Wednesdays in one-hour sessions between 4:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m. William Arredondo, director of the Municipal Sports Council (COMUDE), stated that this program offers a unique opportunity for Vallarta’s youth to learn not only the techniques of the sport but also the values of discipline, respect, and teamwork.
An Iconic Venue
The Miguel Prieto Ibarria Charro Arena, with its traditional structure and authentic atmosphere, will serve as the heart of this project. Here, future charros and escaramuzas will take their first steps among horses, lassos, and movements that honor history.
To conclude the presentation, Councilwoman Erika Yesenia García Rubio, head of the Recreation and Sports Commission, invited Vallarta families to enroll their children and participate in preserving this deeply Mexican tradition.
The Spirit of Charrería Lives in Vallarta
This project aims not only to train future champions but also to create a space where the Vallarta community can reconnect with its roots. The Municipal School of Charrería serves as a reminder that traditions are not relics of the past but are meant to be lived and celebrated by future generations.
With the trot of horses and the echo of charrería feats, Puerto Vallarta is ready to write a new chapter in its cultural history. Charrería is alive and thriving, and Vallarta has much to contribute!