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Summary An Argentine cowboy festival is usually a very macho affair and a contest on Sunday in the small town of Baradero, to the north of Buenos Aires, was no different.
Men with large knives strapped into their belts watch on as the bronc riders struggle to keep a grip on their wild, bucking mounts. If they stay on for the allotted time, two mounted helpers rush in and instantly sweep the rider off the horses back. Many of the riders did not even make it that far. Their horses rear and kick, slashing about dangerously with their hooves as the rider is dumped onto the ground.Cowboy festivals started in Argentina when farm workers hanging around on their days off challenged one another to ride unbreakable horses. Today there are large cash prizes, famous horses and a great pride in being the best bronc rider. In such a traditional festival it was an unexpected twist to see two little people preparing for a contest on wild, miniature ponies.
