On Horseback Through Patagonia: Day 6 – “Incoming!”

We arrived in Cerro Castillo with about 80 jinetes and when we entered the town we were joined by more than 30 others.  We were now a greater force than anyone had imagined. 

We paraded around the town receiving onlyt supportive cheers.  It seemed as though the local communities were now unified and unstoppable.  Before the cabalgata each community was focused on their respective sectors.  Many had expressed a feeling of isolation and powerlessness; however, as we moved from community to community, more jinetes joined the cabalgata with a renewed strength to fight this project.  Everyone felt more empowered and motivated with each new stop we made.  The cabalgata demonstrated that no one was fighting alone in this campaign; that there was now a movement of people on the local, regional, national and international levels that were involved…and this was a cause for celebration!

In addition to building strength on the trails, the additional participants added strength to the celebrations as well.  Cerro Castillo was the site of our biggest asada yet.  From mid-day onward through the early morning, we celebrated the gaucho culture, the Patagonia region, friendship and unity of the campaign. 

In addition to great food and drink, there were live performances by well renowned regional musicians.  The dance floor opened up and immediately all began to take part in the traditional dances of the region, which involved a male and female partnering up and coquettishly dancing with their handkerchiefs.  Everyone was energized and merry as we were a mighty group of 110 horse riders and at least 40 other supporters.  As we were getting closer to Coyhaique, more journalists and TV stations came to capture this momentous event and join in the festivities.  In addition to music, food and drink, there were traditional games  and great conversation as well.