Puerto Vallarta, Mexico – The 12th edition of the International Charro Championship commenced in Puerto Vallarta on Wednesday, marking the beginning of the much-anticipated Charrería Festival. The event, hosted at the Hacienda Serena sports venue, is set to span five days and features over 40 teams from 18 states across Mexico and the United States, including 30 skirmishes, competing for a substantial prize pool of 2 million pesos.
The opening ceremony was presided over by Alfonso Bernal Romero, the president of the organizing committee, and saw the participation of distinguished guests and dignitaries. Representing the city of Puerto Vallarta, Mayor Luis Alberto Michel Rodríguez was symbolically present, with Christian Salvador Preciado Cázares, the director of Tourism and Economic Development, conveying the mayor’s gratitude to both organizers and participating teams for their contributions in making this charro event a highlight on the calendar for national and international visitors.
This annual charro gathering not only showcases Puerto Vallarta’s rich cultural heritage but also provides a significant boost to the local economy. Already, tourists from the United States and various parts of Canada have gathered to partake in this unique celebration.
A notable feature of this year’s tournament is its philanthropic aspect. Throughout the event, free mammograms will be offered by the Breast Cancer Foundation (FUCAM), and free eyeglasses will be distributed to those in need, aligning the festival with a noble cause.
Alfonso Bernal, the president of the organizing committee, emphasized Puerto Vallarta’s capacity to host such prestigious events on par with cities like Los Angeles, Las Vegas, Querétaro, and Pachuca, among others. He extended a warm invitation to all to savor the grandeur of the charrería spectacle in this picturesque coastal town.
The inaugural day saw riveting competitions, with teams such as Tapatia de Charros from Jalisco, Regionales de Nopala from Hidalgo, El Trébol de Chihuahua, and San Isidro Panabá from Yucatán vying for top honors. On the women’s side, Las Costeñitas de Vallarta skirmish made an exhilarating exhibition, earning applause from the enthusiastic crowd that had gathered at the Arena Vallarta.
The Charrería Festival in Puerto Vallarta continues to be a vibrant celebration of Mexico’s cultural heritage, attracting both local and international audiences, while also making a meaningful contribution to charitable causes, further solidifying its position as a must-attend event in the region.
