0:00:00 > 0:00:00- 888
0:00:00 > 0:00:02- 888- - 888
0:00:04 > 0:00:09- I'm Iolo Williams and I'm - on a journey across North America...
0:00:09 > 0:00:15- ..visiting Native American tribes - from the Navajo to the Cherokee...
0:00:16 > 0:00:19- ..from the wild west - to the mountains of the north.
0:00:19 > 0:00:23- These were the inhabitants - of this incredible continent.
0:00:24 > 0:00:28- I'm here to learn about the people, - their culture, language...
0:00:29 > 0:00:32- ..spiritual beliefs - and harmony with nature.
0:00:34 > 0:00:38- I want to know what we can learn - from this unique way of life.
0:00:38 > 0:00:41- Join me on a journey of discovery...
0:00:41 > 0:00:45- ..across one of the world's - most striking continents.
0:01:15 > 0:01:19- What a start - to North American Indian Days...
0:01:19 > 0:01:21- ..here in Browning, Montana.
0:01:21 > 0:01:24- They call this - Running of the Horses.
0:01:25 > 0:01:27- Welcome to the land of horses.
0:01:27 > 0:01:30- Welcome to Blackfoot country.
0:01:33 > 0:01:37- This is the story - of the tribe's exciting journey...
0:01:38 > 0:01:41- ..to become the world's - most skilful horsemen.
0:01:41 > 0:01:46- I'll see amazing scenery - as I meet the wisest and bravest...
0:01:47 > 0:01:49- ..of this iconic tribe.
0:01:49 > 0:01:52- The colours are amazing - and the noise deafening.
0:01:53 > 0:01:57- Can you can imagine such scenes - on the Eisteddfod stage?
0:01:57 > 0:02:00- Their unique - hunting and fighting methods...
0:02:01 > 0:02:06- ..have produced - accomplished horsemen to this day.
0:02:07 > 0:02:10- He's in the lead, but not by much.
0:02:11 > 0:02:13- Horses are integral to their lives.
0:02:14 > 0:02:17- We'll discover the source - of this unique relationship...
0:02:18 > 0:02:23- ..and how the horse has allowed - the tribe to define its identity.
0:02:24 > 0:02:26- This is the story of the Blackfoot.
0:02:29 > 0:02:32- This is the iconic tribe - of north-west America.
0:02:32 > 0:02:36- Found in reservations - across vast plains...
0:02:36 > 0:02:42- ..the Blackfoot dominate a large part - of US and Canadian territory.
0:02:42 > 0:02:44- As with many native tribes...
0:02:45 > 0:02:48- ..the white man put an end - to their traditional way of life.
0:02:49 > 0:02:54- The language is dying and there are - social problems within the tribe.
0:02:54 > 0:02:58- The tribe's history - is split into two periods.
0:02:58 > 0:03:02- An ancient time when they hunted - on foot with dogs...
0:03:02 > 0:03:06- ..and the last 300 years, - when they hunted with horses.
0:03:07 > 0:03:11- This creature revolutionized - their hunting methods.
0:03:11 > 0:03:17- It's a revolution that has defined - the tribe as supreme horsemen.
0:03:21 > 0:03:23- My journey begins in Canada...
0:03:23 > 0:03:28- ..at the foot of the Rockies, - on the vast plains of Alberta.
0:03:30 > 0:03:35- I'm visiting a ranch - to spend time with a master at work.
0:03:35 > 0:03:39- In Blackfoot culture, - the measure of a man's wealth...
0:03:39 > 0:03:41- ..is his horses, not money.
0:03:42 > 0:03:46- At the age of 84, with hundreds - of horses on a huge ranch...
0:03:47 > 0:03:50- ..Pete Standing Alone - is a wealthy and important man.
0:03:50 > 0:03:53- I think that Pete - is the old man in the hat.
0:03:53 > 0:03:55- You must be Pete.
0:03:55 > 0:03:57- I'm Pete Standing Alone, yep.
0:03:57 > 0:03:59- I'm Iolo. Pleased to meet you.
0:04:00 > 0:04:02- Pleased to meet you.
0:04:02 > 0:04:07- This is the Standing Alone family. - They're real-life cowboys.
0:04:07 > 0:04:13- They're going to round up - cattle and calves for branding.
0:04:15 > 0:04:20- They'll use hot irons to brand - the cattle as a mark of ownership.
0:04:20 > 0:04:24- The cattle are about a mile away - in the distance.
0:04:25 > 0:04:28- Watching them at work - will be interesting.
0:04:29 > 0:04:32- I hope to see why the horse...
0:04:33 > 0:04:36- ..is so crucial - to the tribe's way of life.
0:04:37 > 0:04:40- I'm learning from a man - who has reared horses for 60 years.
0:04:41 > 0:04:45- My father taught me - how to rear horses.
0:04:45 > 0:04:48- I'll never give it up. It's my life.
0:04:49 > 0:04:53- At one time, - he owned more than 500 horses.
0:04:53 > 0:04:57- Some were tamed as work horses...
0:04:57 > 0:05:03- ..while others were broncos for that - true wild west pastime, the rodeo.
0:05:04 > 0:05:07- It's like a scene from a western.
0:05:07 > 0:05:11- John Wayne and the boys - rounding up the cattle.
0:05:11 > 0:05:14- But these aren't cowboys, - they're Indians.
0:05:14 > 0:05:19- They're bringing them through this - gate. They know exactly what to do.
0:05:23 > 0:05:27- In the same way as watching - a shepherd and his sheepdog...
0:05:28 > 0:05:32- ..seeing the cowboys control a herd - of unruly cattle is enchanting.
0:05:35 > 0:05:39- They are separating the calves - from their mothers...
0:05:39 > 0:05:41- ..and branding them.
0:05:41 > 0:05:45- Some unfortunate ones - will be mercilessly castrated.
0:05:56 > 0:05:57- It's effortless.
0:05:58 > 0:06:01- He can do it one-handed - while speaking on the phone.
0:06:03 > 0:06:08- Though most of the work is left - to his son and other cowboys...
0:06:08 > 0:06:11- ..Pete is definitely in charge.
0:06:12 > 0:06:14- They have all learnt from him.
0:06:14 > 0:06:18- I'm in the right place - to learn about the horse.
0:06:19 > 0:06:21- Do you have a special affinity - with the horse?
0:06:23 > 0:06:30- The horse and the Blackfoot - share a very special relationship.
0:06:30 > 0:06:35- The horse transformed our lives and - made us strong hunters and warriors.
0:06:35 > 0:06:44- The Blackfoot were feared by all.
0:06:47 > 0:06:51- Pete doesn't like this. - He likes the wood fire.
0:06:52 > 0:06:55- When he was young, - that's all there was.
0:06:55 > 0:06:58- Pete's son, Fagan, told me...
0:06:58 > 0:07:03- ..that few children want to follow - their fathers into agriculture.
0:07:03 > 0:07:07- It's hard graft - from morning until night.
0:07:07 > 0:07:11- They would prefer a nine-to-five job - so that they can go home.
0:07:12 > 0:07:15- But he thoroughly enjoys it.
0:07:15 > 0:07:17- He's a true cowboy.
0:07:18 > 0:07:20- His father, Pete, is more prudent.
0:07:21 > 0:07:23- He's a traditionalist.
0:07:24 > 0:07:30- He still speaks the language - and tries to uphold old traditions.
0:07:30 > 0:07:34- That's evident - from his farming methods.
0:07:34 > 0:07:38- They both contrast each other.
0:07:39 > 0:07:43- But Fagan respects his father - and his methods...
0:07:43 > 0:07:45- ..which is heart-warming to see.
0:07:46 > 0:07:52- How did the horse became a part - of the Blackfoot tradition?
0:07:53 > 0:07:57- The horse was introduced - into our lives in 1730.
0:07:57 > 0:08:02- Within a century, - we had totally mastered them.
0:08:02 > 0:08:08- They are machines - that make our lives easier.
0:08:09 > 0:08:13- Our lives are changing - there are - fewer ranches on the reservation.
0:08:13 > 0:08:19- But we'll never live without horses. - That would break our hearts.
0:08:19 > 0:08:21- They get to work straight away.
0:08:22 > 0:08:26- The calves will be roped in turn - from the corral and branded.
0:08:26 > 0:08:31- It's immediately clear how difficult - this would be without a horse.
0:08:31 > 0:08:35- Pete is straight in there - with the branding iron.
0:08:37 > 0:08:40- Between the strength of the horses - and cowboys...
0:08:41 > 0:08:43- ..the cattle don't stand a chance.
0:08:43 > 0:08:47- It's time for me - to learn how to handle a calf.
0:08:50 > 0:08:53- On there? OK. - Yeah, I've got it. Like that.
0:08:53 > 0:08:55- Lean back.
0:09:08 > 0:09:09- Me up first?
0:09:09 > 0:09:10- Me up first?- - Me.
0:09:10 > 0:09:12- OK, go on then.
0:09:14 > 0:09:17- They may be small, - but they're strong.
0:09:17 > 0:09:19- I had to hold on to it tightly.
0:09:19 > 0:09:23- I'm glad that I didn't get - one of the bigger ones.
0:09:23 > 0:09:26- They're incredibly strong creatures.
0:09:27 > 0:09:30- After mastering the art - of handling a calf...
0:09:31 > 0:09:33- ..I now have to learn how to brand.
0:09:43 > 0:09:46- You have to apply pressure - for five seconds.
0:09:46 > 0:09:50- I'm sure that it's painful - for the calf, but it's over quickly.
0:09:50 > 0:09:52- They're fine afterwards.
0:09:52 > 0:09:56- It's great to see the process - through to the end.
0:09:56 > 0:09:59- These men on horseback - with their lassoes...
0:10:00 > 0:10:03- ..rope their hind legs - and drag them out.
0:10:03 > 0:10:04- It takes no time at all.
0:10:09 > 0:10:12- It's hectic now that they're - catching two at a time.
0:10:23 > 0:10:25- Amid the dust and the smoke...
0:10:25 > 0:10:28- ..I'm drowning - in this unique atmosphere.
0:10:28 > 0:10:33- As the branding and castrating - continues, I chat to Leonard...
0:10:33 > 0:10:37- ..a friend of Pete's - and an expert on Blackfoot culture.
0:10:38 > 0:10:42- As a child, ranching was the only - livelihood on the reservation.
0:10:42 > 0:10:48- Horse culture was everything. - There were no cars here.
0:10:48 > 0:10:52- It's nice to see the community - working together like this.
0:10:52 > 0:10:57- It's a rare sight nowadays.
0:10:58 > 0:11:01- Are you going to end off your day...
0:11:01 > 0:11:05- ..by having a dish - of the prairie oysters...
0:11:05 > 0:11:09- ..to bring a little bit of spark - into your life?
0:11:09 > 0:11:11- Even I know what they are!
0:11:16 > 0:11:20- Apparently, it's customary - for first-time ranch hands...
0:11:21 > 0:11:24- ..to eat one of the testicles.
0:11:28 > 0:11:30- It's cooking on the fire - over there.
0:11:30 > 0:11:32- I've told him to cook it well.
0:11:33 > 0:11:35- I don't want it rare!
0:11:35 > 0:11:37- It has to be well done!
0:11:42 > 0:11:44- That's disgusting!
0:11:44 > 0:11:47- That's disgusting!- - Grab it good! Grab it good!
0:11:47 > 0:11:49- Grab it like this.
0:11:49 > 0:11:50- There you go.
0:11:50 > 0:11:52- There you go.- - I have to eat that?
0:12:04 > 0:12:08- I'm not sure I should say this, - but it's very tasty...
0:12:09 > 0:12:11- ..considering where it came from.
0:12:14 > 0:12:16- It's very nice.
0:12:20 > 0:12:21- All done? All done.
0:12:22 > 0:12:24- Well done. Well done, boss man.
0:12:27 > 0:12:29- Now it's the beer.
0:12:29 > 0:12:31- Now it's the beer.- - Now it's the beer, right.
0:12:31 > 0:12:34- It might be piss warm, - but it's still beer.
0:12:38 > 0:12:43- As well as being unforgettable, - today's events have convinced me...
0:12:43 > 0:12:46- ..that the Blackfoot - are masters of the horse.
0:12:46 > 0:12:50- As the ranch settles down, - I take the chance to ask Leonard...
0:12:51 > 0:12:53- ..about this incredible creature.
0:12:54 > 0:12:59- Is there a spiritual side - to this very close relationship...
0:12:59 > 0:13:02- ..between the Blackfoot - and the horse?
0:13:02 > 0:13:08- We're looking over hallowed ground - called Chief Mountain.
0:13:08 > 0:13:11- Legend has it - that this is where the horse...
0:13:11 > 0:13:14- ..a gift from the Thundergod, - descended to earth.
0:13:14 > 0:13:20- I don't know about that, but horses - definitely transformed our world...
0:13:20 > 0:13:25- ..and turned us - into kings of the prairie.
0:13:25 > 0:13:32- Horses are very prominent - in our contemporary culture.
0:13:32 > 0:13:37- They decorate our tepees - and feature in our songs.
0:13:48 > 0:13:51- As I leave the ranch, - it's hard to believe...
0:13:51 > 0:13:55- ..how much I've learnt - about the lifestyle in one day.
0:13:56 > 0:14:00- I feel as though Pete and his gang - have immersed me in their culture.
0:14:00 > 0:14:03- I'm reminded of one thing - as I leave.
0:14:03 > 0:14:06- Through all the changes - in their history...
0:14:07 > 0:14:10- ..have the Indians - since become cowboys?
0:14:11 > 0:14:12- .
0:14:15 > 0:14:15- 888
0:14:15 > 0:14:17- 888- - 888
0:14:21 > 0:14:23- I'm on an epic journey...
0:14:23 > 0:14:28- ..through the unique world - of the Blackfoot Native Americans.
0:14:28 > 0:14:34- I'm crossing the border from Canada - to the USA to the next reservation.
0:14:34 > 0:14:37- The Blackfoot walked this land...
0:14:37 > 0:14:42- ..long before boundaries - were imposed by the white man.
0:14:52 > 0:14:56- I've reached Browning, Montana...
0:14:56 > 0:14:59- ..the Blackfoot's main town...
0:14:59 > 0:15:03- ..and the location for the North - American Indian Days festival.
0:15:07 > 0:15:10- Despite my wonderful experience - with Pete yesterday...
0:15:11 > 0:15:16- ..and the picturesque drive - along the Rockies, I'm saddened.
0:15:16 > 0:15:20- I drove through - Montana's pretty countryside...
0:15:20 > 0:15:23- ..past its wealthy towns...
0:15:23 > 0:15:27- ..into the province itself...
0:15:27 > 0:15:33- ..to the Blackfoot reservation, - and the atmosphere has changed.
0:15:33 > 0:15:36- It's a run-down area - strewn with rubbish.
0:15:37 > 0:15:38- This is Browning.
0:15:39 > 0:15:42- It's not a nice thing to say, - but it's a real dump.
0:15:45 > 0:15:50- It's the Fourth of July, - American Independence Day.
0:15:51 > 0:15:54- Ironically, the Blackfoot - are celebrating something...
0:15:54 > 0:15:58- ..that changed their lives - for the worse, including alcohol.
0:16:00 > 0:16:04- Happy Fourth of July to both of you. - Happy Fourth of July.
0:16:04 > 0:16:06- Happy Fourth of July.
0:16:08 > 0:16:10- Happy Fourth of July.
0:16:12 > 0:16:15- Shall I take my jacket off - and show my muscles?
0:16:16 > 0:16:20- You can show your muscles if you - want to. Let's have a look at them.
0:16:20 > 0:16:22- They're only small.
0:16:23 > 0:16:27- It's a warm yet sad welcome - to the reservation.
0:16:29 > 0:16:32- I make my way over - to the other side of town...
0:16:32 > 0:16:35- ..for a horse-racing event.
0:16:36 > 0:16:39- It's the Fourth of July, - US Independence Day...
0:16:40 > 0:16:45- ..and an Indian relay race - on horseback is taking place here.
0:16:45 > 0:16:48- I want to see - exactly what it involves.
0:16:48 > 0:16:50- There's quite a crowd here.
0:16:50 > 0:16:53- I'm told that they get excited - and shout a lot.
0:16:57 > 0:17:02- Racing is an important event, - with lots of money taken in bets.
0:17:02 > 0:17:05- As well as familiar flat racing...
0:17:05 > 0:17:08- ..there's also - a uniquely Native American race.
0:17:09 > 0:17:12- All I know about this relay race...
0:17:12 > 0:17:15- ..is that they have to change - three times.
0:17:15 > 0:17:20- They go round once, change horses - and do two more laps...
0:17:21 > 0:17:22- ..before finishing.
0:17:23 > 0:17:26- I know no more than that. - It'll be interesting to see.
0:17:28 > 0:17:32- This is obviously the race - that everybody wants to see.
0:17:32 > 0:17:36- They've started to shout - and everybody's on their feet.
0:17:39 > 0:17:43- These races developed - from warring techniques.
0:17:44 > 0:17:48- During a battle, if a horse - grew tired or was wounded...
0:17:48 > 0:17:51- ..riders jumped onto another horse.
0:17:51 > 0:17:53- They are bareback.
0:17:53 > 0:17:58- Riders have to depend on great skill - and courage to win the race.
0:18:00 > 0:18:03- The only difference - since those combative days...
0:18:04 > 0:18:08- ..is that money and kudos - are today's spoils.
0:18:08 > 0:18:11- The riders' lives - are still at stake.
0:18:11 > 0:18:13- When they get to here, - it goes crazy.
0:18:14 > 0:18:17- There are so many teams. - They have to change horses.
0:18:17 > 0:18:21- This is the second time around. - They have to find their horse.
0:18:24 > 0:18:26- Flippin' heck!
0:18:34 > 0:18:35- Did you see that?
0:18:35 > 0:18:39- The rider in the red jersey - fell underneath the horse.
0:18:41 > 0:18:46- There's so much dust when they pass - that I can't see a thing.
0:18:57 > 0:19:00- That was incredibly exciting.
0:19:00 > 0:19:03- The dust - and the sound of people shouting.
0:19:03 > 0:19:07- These relay races...
0:19:07 > 0:19:10- ..celebrate the old skills...
0:19:10 > 0:19:13- ..of fighting on horseback.
0:19:13 > 0:19:16- It's a way - of keeping that tradition alive.
0:19:17 > 0:19:21- It's nice to see - so many young men riding.
0:19:22 > 0:19:26- That tradition has been passed - from generation to generation.
0:19:26 > 0:19:31- It's refreshing to see - so many young children here too.
0:19:31 > 0:19:35- They're watching this - and feeling the excitement.
0:19:35 > 0:19:38- It's something - for them to aspire to.
0:19:40 > 0:19:43- The Europeans - first brought horses to America.
0:19:43 > 0:19:46- They were originally - cowboys' animals...
0:19:47 > 0:19:50- ..but I'm starting to sense - a strong affinity...
0:19:50 > 0:19:53- ..between the Indians - and their horses.
0:19:53 > 0:19:58- I've come to the stables to learn - more about these brave riders.
0:19:58 > 0:20:01- How are you, son? Are you alright?
0:20:01 > 0:20:04- Are you alright? - You fell underneath the horse?
0:20:05 > 0:20:07- Where did it kick you?
0:20:07 > 0:20:08- In the knee.
0:20:08 > 0:20:10- In the knee.- - Oh, man! That's a bit of a mess.
0:20:11 > 0:20:13- Nothing broken?
0:20:13 > 0:20:14- Will you be back in a week?
0:20:14 > 0:20:16- Will you be back in a week?- - Yep.
0:20:18 > 0:20:21- Good luck next time. - Look after that leg.
0:20:21 > 0:20:24- The big race is held - at the end of the week.
0:20:25 > 0:20:30- I come across one of the young stars - of these relay races, Sage Momberg.
0:20:30 > 0:20:33- That's a race and a half. - A dangerous race.
0:20:33 > 0:20:35- You guys liked that, huh?
0:20:35 > 0:20:37- You guys liked that, huh?- - Yes. A lot of dust and noise.
0:20:38 > 0:20:41- A lot of excitement - in three or four minutes.
0:20:42 > 0:20:45- You've got some big races coming up - at the end of the week.
0:20:45 > 0:20:47- Starting on Wednesday.
0:20:47 > 0:20:48- Starting on Wednesday.- - Right.
0:20:48 > 0:20:53- Is there any chance I could spend - time with you to see how you train?
0:20:53 > 0:20:58- Yeah, sure. Wednesday morning - we're usually here, sun up.
0:20:58 > 0:21:01- If I came round - Wednesday morning, can I...?
0:21:02 > 0:21:03- Up until the race?
0:21:03 > 0:21:05- Up until the race?- - Yes, I'd like to see the race too.
0:21:05 > 0:21:08- If there's anything I can do to help.
0:21:08 > 0:21:13- Obviously, I can't ride, but if I can - do anything to help, that'd be cool.
0:21:13 > 0:21:19- Fantastic. Thank you very much. - Cheers. Thank you for that.
0:21:19 > 0:21:24- Fair play to him. I wasn't exactly - invited. I was a bit pushy.
0:21:24 > 0:21:28- But I want to learn more - about this form of racing.
0:21:29 > 0:21:31- I want to see how they train...
0:21:31 > 0:21:35- ..because it's so different - from any racing I've seen at home.
0:21:35 > 0:21:40- I'm going to spend some time - with him during the week.
0:21:41 > 0:21:45- I hope to stay with him until - the big race at the end of the week.
0:21:46 > 0:21:51- It should be exciting because - there will be thousands here then.
0:21:54 > 0:21:58- On my way back to the hotel, - I reflect on what I've seen so far.
0:21:59 > 0:22:03- From the old to the young, - horses are central to their lives.
0:22:06 > 0:22:12- Having met Pete Standing Alone, - I can't believe he was 84.
0:22:12 > 0:22:14- I also met Sage.
0:22:14 > 0:22:17- Pete was an old man - who understands horses.
0:22:18 > 0:22:22- They both share similar traits.
0:22:22 > 0:22:26- A love of horses - and an understanding of them.
0:22:26 > 0:22:31- After seeing Pete, I thought - that horsemanship was dying out...
0:22:32 > 0:22:36- ..but having met Sage and the others, - evidently it's not.
0:22:36 > 0:22:40- They are the younger generation...
0:22:40 > 0:22:45- ..who will keep the tradition going - and pass it on.
0:22:45 > 0:22:48- I'm looking forward - to attending the festival...
0:22:49 > 0:22:51- ..to find out what goes on there.
0:23:03 > 0:23:08- For centuries, horses have been - central to the Blackfoot lifestyle.
0:23:08 > 0:23:12- There is a spiritual quality - to the relationship.
0:23:12 > 0:23:16- I'm eager to find out more about - the tribe before the Horse Days...
0:23:16 > 0:23:19- ..back in the Dog Days.
0:23:19 > 0:23:25- This place is historically important - for the Blackfoot.
0:23:25 > 0:23:28- An archaeological dig - is currently under way here.
0:23:29 > 0:23:32- I've come to discover more - about the dig...
0:23:32 > 0:23:36- ..and also about the tribe's - old way of life.
0:23:36 > 0:23:40- Naturally, their history - revolves around hunting.
0:23:40 > 0:23:42- They're busy digging here.
0:23:43 > 0:23:46- Hunting was always - a dangerous pursuit...
0:23:46 > 0:23:50- ..especially when you consider - the strength of the buffalo.
0:23:51 > 0:23:54- They developed - an incredible method for hunting.
0:23:55 > 0:24:00- I'm meeting with a Blackfoot sage - who's helping with the dig.
0:24:00 > 0:24:05- How did the Blackfoot live - four or five centuries ago?
0:24:05 > 0:24:10- 400 years ago, - before the white man came...
0:24:10 > 0:24:15- ..communities would live in tepees - near cliffs like these.
0:24:15 > 0:24:19- Hunting buffalo was dangerous - for the hunters and their dogs.
0:24:19 > 0:24:25- They would scare a herd of buffalo - and send a stampede over the cliff.
0:24:25 > 0:24:29- The horse made it relatively easy - with a bow and arrow or rifle...
0:24:29 > 0:24:34- ..to hunt one animal at a time - over a vast area of land.
0:24:40 > 0:24:42- I'm getting a clearer picture...
0:24:42 > 0:24:47- ..of how the Blackfoot lived - four or five centuries ago.
0:24:47 > 0:24:52- Bob has painted - a very colourful mental image...
0:24:52 > 0:24:54- ..of tepees covering this area...
0:24:55 > 0:25:01- ..with dozens of buffalo stampeding - over the cliffs to their death.
0:25:01 > 0:25:06- But the Blackfoot - didn't just inhabit this area.
0:25:06 > 0:25:09- They lived - over incredibly vast areas...
0:25:09 > 0:25:14- ..of north-western America, - even up in the mountains.
0:25:24 > 0:25:27- The Rockies are known - as the backbone of America.
0:25:28 > 0:25:32- You can see why - when they tower above you.
0:25:32 > 0:25:36- This iconic area is teeming - with all kinds of wildlife.
0:25:37 > 0:25:41- That has always been a vital part - of the Blackfoot spirit.
0:25:49 > 0:25:52- Many years ago, - in order to prove themselves...
0:25:53 > 0:25:55- ..and earn more respect - from the tribe...
0:25:56 > 0:25:59- ..young Blackfoot warriors...
0:25:59 > 0:26:02- ..would venture up - to these great mountains.
0:26:03 > 0:26:07- They would stay for four days...
0:26:07 > 0:26:11- ..and four nights - without food and water...
0:26:11 > 0:26:16- ..to summon - some sort of spiritual dream.
0:26:16 > 0:26:21- This dream would always feature - a living thing...
0:26:21 > 0:26:25- ..such as an eagle or buffalo...
0:26:25 > 0:26:29- ..or maybe a lightning bolt - that would bring them a message.
0:26:29 > 0:26:34- If they received this message, - they would return to the tribe.
0:26:35 > 0:26:40- The respect shown toward them - increased greatly.
0:26:41 > 0:26:45- It was known as a vision quest.
0:26:51 > 0:26:56- The warrior spirit is an inherent - part of the Blackfoot tradition.
0:26:56 > 0:27:02- I only hope that the same bravery - lives on in the tribe today.
0:27:05 > 0:27:05- .
0:27:08 > 0:27:08- 888
0:27:08 > 0:27:10- 888- - 888
0:27:13 > 0:27:16- I'm in Browning, Montana, - at the foot of the Rockies...
0:27:16 > 0:27:18- ..to meet the Blackfoot.
0:27:18 > 0:27:22- The North American Indian Days - festival starts tomorrow.
0:27:22 > 0:27:26- I'm joining Sage Momberg's - horse-racing team...
0:27:26 > 0:27:31- ..to try to learn more - about their affinity with horses.
0:27:31 > 0:27:35- Sage. How are you? - Are you alright? Good to see you.
0:27:36 > 0:27:40- You want some grain in here? - One scoop only, yeah?
0:27:42 > 0:27:45- Come on, lad, - get your nose into that food.
0:27:45 > 0:27:47- In the corner there?
0:27:47 > 0:27:50- In the corner there?- - Yeah, just dump that wheelbarrow.
0:27:50 > 0:27:53- Go and grab that bucket right there.
0:27:53 > 0:27:54- Watch the manure.
0:27:54 > 0:27:56- Watch the manure.- - I can see this is a nice job.
0:27:56 > 0:27:58- Thanks for that!
0:28:01 > 0:28:03- We need water. - We need to rinse this out.
0:28:07 > 0:28:09- Relax.
0:28:09 > 0:28:10- Relax.
0:28:11 > 0:28:14- I think we're scaring the horse.
0:28:14 > 0:28:19- They don't usually kick, - but you have to be careful.
0:28:19 > 0:28:22- He's looking back at me. - You have to be careful.
0:28:35 > 0:28:39- A good way of keeping them warm - is to get them to run around.
0:28:39 > 0:28:40- Do we get another one?
0:28:40 > 0:28:43- Do we get another one?- - Yeah, we could get another one.
0:28:43 > 0:28:48- I soon realize that handling horses - looks far easier than it actually is.
0:29:02 > 0:29:04- Where did that horse go?
0:29:08 > 0:29:10- My horse has disappeared.
0:29:10 > 0:29:13- Clearly, - I hadn't tethered it properly.
0:29:13 > 0:29:19- Some of the Indian relay skills - must date back to the warrior days.
0:29:20 > 0:29:23- Yeah. Shooting a bow and arrow, - chasing buffalo.
0:29:23 > 0:29:26- Everyday survival on horseback.
0:29:26 > 0:29:29- When you compete - against other reservations...
0:29:29 > 0:29:31- ..you compete for your tribe.
0:29:32 > 0:29:35- You're a warrior now. - Everybody has their own way.
0:29:36 > 0:29:38- That's just the way it is.
0:29:38 > 0:29:40- We don't kill each other no more.
0:29:40 > 0:29:43- This is what we do - racing.
0:29:43 > 0:29:46- I feel like a warrior. - It's in my heart.
0:29:46 > 0:29:48- It's in my horses.
0:29:50 > 0:29:52- It must be really exciting.
0:29:52 > 0:29:56- You don't know how warrior - a guy can get out there.
0:29:59 > 0:30:02- It was nice chatting to Sage - just now.
0:30:03 > 0:30:07- I felt as if it was the closest - I could get in this modern age...
0:30:07 > 0:30:09- ..to a real-life warrior.
0:30:10 > 0:30:13- He has been racing - since he was 12 years old.
0:30:13 > 0:30:17- That's young to start - because it's so dangerous.
0:30:18 > 0:30:21- He's learnt from the older, - more experienced horsemen.
0:30:22 > 0:30:25- Not only how to ride - but how to look after horses.
0:30:25 > 0:30:30- As an onlooker, it's obvious - that he takes good care of them.
0:30:30 > 0:30:35- When the race starts, - he feels at one with the horse.
0:30:37 > 0:30:42- When other tribes come up here - for the big race...
0:30:42 > 0:30:46- ..tribes such as the Shoshone - and the Crow...
0:30:46 > 0:30:51- ..he says that's when he feels - that he's gone back two centuries...
0:30:51 > 0:30:53- ..almost as if he's in battle.
0:30:53 > 0:30:56- He has that combative spirit.
0:30:56 > 0:31:01- He says that's the closest thing - we'll get nowadays to a battle.
0:31:01 > 0:31:05- And of course, no-one dies. - I thought that was superb.
0:31:07 > 0:31:08- Thank you, Sage.
0:31:09 > 0:31:11- Ta-ta, son.
0:31:15 > 0:31:19- The big festival - has finally arrived.
0:31:19 > 0:31:25- Browning is packed with cowboys and - Indians from across North America.
0:31:25 > 0:31:29- This is the 2010 - North American Indian Days festival.
0:31:29 > 0:31:31- It's quite a spectacle.
0:31:31 > 0:31:36- During the day, I'll witness - all kinds of horse-racing...
0:31:36 > 0:31:40- ..as well as horse and bull rodeos.
0:31:40 > 0:31:42- There's a big powwow here...
0:31:43 > 0:31:47- ..where everybody dresses up - in traditional costumes.
0:31:47 > 0:31:51- But the festival highlight, - and the thing I most want to see...
0:31:51 > 0:31:53- ..is the Indian relay race.
0:31:58 > 0:32:00- # The Star-Spangled Banner #
0:32:00 > 0:32:03- The national anthem is playing...
0:32:03 > 0:32:07- ..which is odd, considering - it's a festival for Native Americans.
0:32:11 > 0:32:15- The festival - has been held for 60 years...
0:32:15 > 0:32:18- ..and is a combination - of old and modern events.
0:32:18 > 0:32:20- Big money changes hands...
0:32:21 > 0:32:26- ..and winners go on - to compete nationally in Las Vegas.
0:32:26 > 0:32:29- They call this - a Native American festival...
0:32:29 > 0:32:32- ..in spite of the rodeo - and cowboys everywhere.
0:32:33 > 0:32:36- But I've spotted some tepees - in the distance.
0:32:36 > 0:32:41- I hope we see the traditional side - at the powwow later.
0:32:56 > 0:33:01- I see nothing but cowboy culture - at this Native American festival.
0:33:01 > 0:33:03- I ask one of the officials...
0:33:04 > 0:33:07- ..what makes this festival - different from any other rodeo.
0:33:08 > 0:33:10- You answer that.
0:33:11 > 0:33:19- We respected the cowboys' skills - and they became part of our culture.
0:33:19 > 0:33:23- That's how we learnt the rodeo.
0:33:23 > 0:33:31- But the relay race and powwow makes - it a uniquely Native American event.
0:33:31 > 0:33:36- People compete in traditional dance - and drumming competitions.
0:33:39 > 0:33:45- Be it cowboy or Indian culture, - the rodeo is sensational to watch.
0:33:47 > 0:33:49- Wow! Goodness me!
0:33:50 > 0:33:53- Fair play, - that was a bareback rodeo.
0:33:53 > 0:33:58- The man held on for seven or eight - seconds before the buzzer went.
0:33:58 > 0:34:00- It looks dangerous.
0:34:00 > 0:34:05- With tens of millions of dollars - to be made each year...
0:34:05 > 0:34:08- ..rodeos are big business.
0:34:10 > 0:34:15- They test the different skills - needed to handle horses and cattle.
0:34:16 > 0:34:20- But the dangers are obvious, - with hundreds injured every year.
0:34:24 > 0:34:29- I head over to the other side - to try to get closer to the action.
0:34:29 > 0:34:32- We're at the heart of things here.
0:34:32 > 0:34:37- The riders start from here. - Look how confined this space is.
0:34:42 > 0:34:46- That shows you - how wild these horses are.
0:34:47 > 0:34:50- It's confined, - but it's still trying to get out.
0:34:51 > 0:34:53- The cowboys mount them here.
0:34:54 > 0:34:57- They hold on tightly - until the gate is opened...
0:34:57 > 0:35:02- ..and then it's stay on - for eight seconds or that's it.
0:35:03 > 0:35:07- This man has broken his neck twice, - but he still gets back on a horse.
0:35:28 > 0:35:30- BUZZER SOUNDS
0:35:40 > 0:35:44- Whoa! I think the horse - caught one man down there.
0:35:44 > 0:35:46- He's had a knock.
0:35:46 > 0:35:48- Are we alright, Johnny?
0:35:50 > 0:35:56- When you're right in the middle - of it, it can be very dangerous.
0:35:56 > 0:35:59- It's far worse for them, of course.
0:35:59 > 0:36:02- You can sense the thrill of it all.
0:36:03 > 0:36:05- The atmosphere is electric.
0:36:05 > 0:36:08- These men are very brave and strong.
0:36:08 > 0:36:11- There's the man.
0:36:11 > 0:36:13- He looks in pain, doesn't he?
0:36:13 > 0:36:16- But as good as the rodeo - is to watch...
0:36:16 > 0:36:19- ..I've come to see - Native American culture.
0:36:19 > 0:36:24- From what I see - everyone here behaves like cowboys.
0:36:24 > 0:36:24- .
0:36:25 > 0:36:25- 888
0:36:25 > 0:36:27- 888- - 888
0:36:34 > 0:36:38- I've come to Browning, Montana, - for the Blackfoot's grand festival.
0:36:38 > 0:36:43- It's an eisteddfod of rodeos, - racing and all things equine.
0:36:44 > 0:36:47- Cowboy culture - is all I've seen so far...
0:36:48 > 0:36:51- ..but I have a feeling - that things are about to change.
0:37:08 > 0:37:12- I've left the rodeo - to come and see the grand powwow.
0:37:12 > 0:37:15- It's like leaving - the Royal Welsh Show...
0:37:15 > 0:37:18- ..and arriving - at the National Eisteddfod.
0:37:18 > 0:37:21- I'm sure it'll be a sea of colour.
0:37:25 > 0:37:31- As at all good eisteddfodau, - among the stalls is a campsite.
0:37:33 > 0:37:38- What's happening, guys? Are you - putting it up or pulling it down?
0:37:38 > 0:37:40- What are you doing?
0:37:40 > 0:37:42- Instant replay!
0:37:43 > 0:37:47- You've got to pull it down again? - Did you put it up wrong?
0:37:47 > 0:37:50- They haven't put the tepee up - correctly.
0:37:50 > 0:37:53- There isn't enough room inside...
0:37:53 > 0:37:56- ..so they have to pull it down - and start again.
0:37:57 > 0:38:01- Years ago, it apparently took - three hours to put up a tepee.
0:38:01 > 0:38:04- They say it takes them half a day.
0:38:04 > 0:38:07- It's clearly a dying art.
0:38:12 > 0:38:15- These tepees - belong to local Blackfoot.
0:38:15 > 0:38:19- The owner told me - that the otter pattern on this one...
0:38:19 > 0:38:22- ..despite not looking much - like otters....
0:38:23 > 0:38:25- ..and the two yellow lines...
0:38:26 > 0:38:29- ..represent the two local rivers.
0:38:30 > 0:38:34- The two yellow dots at the base - represent the sun and the moon.
0:38:34 > 0:38:39- The star denotes north, south, - east and west.
0:38:39 > 0:38:42- They've brought two tepees along.
0:38:42 > 0:38:45- This is the other one, - which I'm not allowed into.
0:38:46 > 0:38:48- That's the medicine man's tepee.
0:38:48 > 0:38:51- We're not allowed to film in there.
0:38:51 > 0:38:55- It's wonderful - the way they've decorated it.
0:38:55 > 0:38:57- Unlike the racetrack...
0:38:58 > 0:39:01- ..everybody here - is wearing traditional costume.
0:39:02 > 0:39:05- They are getting ready - for a real spectacle.
0:39:06 > 0:39:09- The opening ceremony - is about to get under way.
0:39:09 > 0:39:13- There are tribes here - from all over America.
0:39:13 > 0:39:17- Oregon, Washington, - Florida, New Mexico.
0:39:17 > 0:39:23- It starts with everybody dancing. - I'd better take my seat.
0:39:23 > 0:39:26- RHYTHMIC DRUMBEAT
0:39:28 > 0:39:32- Ladies and gentlemen, - we are bringing in our colours.
0:39:32 > 0:39:38- Considering the constant threat to - their culture from the white man...
0:39:38 > 0:39:43- ..it's a wonderful feeling - to watch this ceremony...
0:39:43 > 0:39:46- ..that celebrates the fact - that they are still here.
0:39:48 > 0:39:53- Dozens of tribes from all over - America are in this procession.
0:39:53 > 0:39:56- The colours are incredible...
0:39:56 > 0:39:58- ..and the sound deafening.
0:39:58 > 0:40:03- Can you imagine such scenes - on the Eisteddfod stage? Maybe not!
0:40:03 > 0:40:05- RHYTHMIC DRUMMING
0:40:10 > 0:40:14- No white person - is allowed in there to dance.
0:40:14 > 0:40:19- You have to belong to a tribe - to be allowed in the circle.
0:40:19 > 0:40:22- The way I dance, - that might not be a bad thing!
0:40:31 > 0:40:34- Every tribe has brought along - a drumming group.
0:40:35 > 0:40:38- They play their own songs.
0:40:38 > 0:40:40- These are the Chippewa.
0:40:41 > 0:40:45- This is a song of praise - for the warriors...
0:40:46 > 0:40:47- ..who fought long ago...
0:40:48 > 0:40:51- ..as well as those - who are still fighting for America.
0:40:52 > 0:40:55- What's special - is that all the tribes...
0:40:55 > 0:41:00- ..are dancing to the songs - of all the drumming groups.
0:41:04 > 0:41:11- When it comes to competing, - there are three different dances.
0:41:11 > 0:41:14- One is a traditional dance...
0:41:14 > 0:41:19- ..closely resembling - the one danced centuries ago.
0:41:19 > 0:41:25- Another is the Fancy Dance, - which is relatively modern.
0:41:25 > 0:41:29- There's also - the special Blackfoot dance...
0:41:29 > 0:41:32- ..that they call the Chicken Dance.
0:41:39 > 0:41:43- Seeing all the colours and energy - has been an experience.
0:41:43 > 0:41:46- I'm relieved to discover...
0:41:46 > 0:41:50- ..that Native American culture - still exists.
0:41:56 > 0:42:00- The festival continues - and today is the big day.
0:42:00 > 0:42:02- The Indian relay race.
0:42:03 > 0:42:06- The atmosphere has changed here.
0:42:06 > 0:42:10- The rodeo has finished - and they've sealed off that area.
0:42:11 > 0:42:15- The racetrack is ready - and the relay race is about to start.
0:42:16 > 0:42:21- The stand is jam-packed - and Native American music is playing.
0:42:25 > 0:42:28- As the climax approaches, - a song of prayer is offered...
0:42:29 > 0:42:32- ..to keep the riders from harm.
0:42:32 > 0:42:36- I leave the rodeo in search - of the modern-day warriors.
0:42:36 > 0:42:41- I come across Sage and his team - praying quietly in the stable.
0:42:41 > 0:42:43- The tension is palpable.
0:42:46 > 0:42:51- I've just spoken to Sage and he's - like I was before a rugby match.
0:42:51 > 0:42:55- I'd sit down or warm up. - I didn't want to speak to anyone.
0:42:55 > 0:42:58- He was very quiet. - I'll let him be.
0:42:58 > 0:43:01- There are only minutes to go - before the race.
0:43:02 > 0:43:04- I'll leave the team alone.
0:43:08 > 0:43:13- In the old days, I'm sure this is - how they felt going into battle.
0:43:13 > 0:43:16- My grandfather - fought in the First World War.
0:43:16 > 0:43:19- He said that it went quiet - before they went over the top.
0:43:20 > 0:43:22- They were waiting - for the call to arms.
0:43:23 > 0:43:25- It's the same sort of feeling here.
0:43:25 > 0:43:29- They're starting to prepare - the horses.
0:43:35 > 0:43:38- As we make our way to the stadium - for the race...
0:43:39 > 0:43:43- ..the atmosphere totally changes - and my heart begins to pound.
0:43:43 > 0:43:47- God only knows - what's going through Sage's mind.
0:43:47 > 0:43:50- Off they go. Off they go.
0:43:58 > 0:44:00- Sage is in the lead.
0:44:02 > 0:44:04- He's ahead into the first corner.
0:44:04 > 0:44:07- Sage's team - is ready with the horses.
0:44:26 > 0:44:28- Go on! Go on, son!
0:44:37 > 0:44:39- He's ahead but not by much.
0:44:39 > 0:44:41- That wasn't the best exchange.
0:44:42 > 0:44:44- But it wasn't bad.
0:44:44 > 0:44:47- Sage is in the lead. Come on.
0:44:47 > 0:44:49- Come on, son!
0:44:51 > 0:44:53- Come on, Sage! Get a good one!
0:44:54 > 0:44:56- Come on, come on, come on.
0:44:56 > 0:44:58- Go on, go on.
0:44:58 > 0:45:00- Oh, no, no, no, no!
0:45:14 > 0:45:17- Anything can happen - in a race like this.
0:45:18 > 0:45:21- He got off to a great start, - but the horse turned.
0:45:22 > 0:45:25- A lot of it - is down to luck and courage.
0:45:25 > 0:45:28- They're very brave - because it's so dangerous.
0:45:29 > 0:45:31- He's got a lot of ground to make up.
0:45:31 > 0:45:33- He's miles behind.
0:45:37 > 0:45:39- WILD CHEERING
0:45:50 > 0:45:52- The yellow team won.
0:45:53 > 0:45:56- Sage hung on in there - until the final lap.
0:45:56 > 0:45:59- But the exchange was all wrong.
0:46:00 > 0:46:02- That's what lost him the race.
0:46:02 > 0:46:04- You can't win them all.
0:46:04 > 0:46:07- Congratulations to the yellow team.
0:46:07 > 0:46:09- Luckily, I didn't bet on Sage!
0:46:09 > 0:46:11- The race was an exciting climax.
0:46:12 > 0:46:15- The difference between cowboys - and Indians is now clear.
0:46:16 > 0:46:18- They're all skilful horsemen...
0:46:19 > 0:46:21- ..but Sage and the other Blackfoot...
0:46:21 > 0:46:26- ..put their affinity with the horse - above all else.
0:46:27 > 0:46:30- Sage not only masters the horse, - he's at one with it.
0:46:30 > 0:46:35- He entrusts his body and soul - to the horse during the race.
0:46:36 > 0:46:38- My time with the Blackfoot ends...
0:46:39 > 0:46:43- ..amid the hubbub - of North American Indian Days.
0:46:43 > 0:46:47- It has been an exciting journey. - My hands are still trembling.
0:46:47 > 0:46:51- But what is life like - for the Blackfoot tribe nowadays?
0:46:51 > 0:46:55- I can say that many old traditions - have died out.
0:46:56 > 0:46:58- Their language is dying out.
0:46:58 > 0:47:00- But the feeling I get...
0:47:00 > 0:47:04- ..is that as long as horses - remain in Montana...
0:47:04 > 0:47:07- ..so will the Blackfoot.
0:47:24 > 0:47:26- S4C Subtitles by Adnod Cyf.
0:47:26 > 0:47:26- .