Competing in fast-paced, choreographed horseback routines, Alejandra Piña and her Iowa teammates showcase the grit and grace of Mexican rodeo, honoring their heritage with each hoofbeat.
Generations before Alejandra Piña galloped onto the charrería circuit, equestrians in her family wowed spectators with their skill and daring. Charrería is a form of Mexican rodeo. Participants—called charros—showcase animal control across nine events, including roping steer, riding wild mares, and handling reins with precision. Escaramuza is the sole female event within the world of charrería—and it’s Piña’s passion.
Piña’s father, Juan, is president of the Union of Associations of Charros of the State of Iowa. Watching him serve as master of ceremonies, guiding audiences through action-packed sequences, inspired Alejandra to get more involved. Harnessing her ancestors’ legacy, she founded Des Moines-based Escaramuza Quetzalli in 2022. At competitions, judges assess riders (who begin as young as 12 and wear flouncing ruffled skirts and wide felt sombreros) on the style and execution of synchronized routines. It’s all the speed and pageantry of charrería—minus its machismo.
You grew up around charrería through your dad’s family and recently spent some time training in Mexico. What keeps you connected to the sport?
It’s the adrenaline and the community you make with the friends that you meet. It’s the networking, the sportsmanship, the sisterhood. They call it “La Familia Charra.” If something happens, they will support you or help you in any way…