The Gauchos of Estancia La Fortuna, Argentina
Our Antarctic cruise started and ended in Buenos Aires, Argentina so we decided to take an end of cruise excursion to the Estancia La Fortuna, a working cattle ranch west of the capital city. After a hour bus ride our tour of 50 arrived at the ranch headquarters, a beautiful French villa. We were greeted by the owner. He introduced his gauchos who would entertain us that morning. It began with a game they play on horseback called La Sortila.
La Sortija" (the ring) is played with two upright wooden posts about ten feet high, crossed by a beam ... In the middle of this cross-beam, and underneath loosely suspended a brass ring. A Gaucho, galloping at the fastest beneath this, and using a wooden dowel attempts to put the ring on his dowel all the while on horseback and riding as fast as possible. The younger gauchos could not compete with the older gaucho and he won the game. He rode over to my wife and gave her the brass ring. I think it was because she spoke fluent Spanish and connected with them.
During the morning show of horsemanship, the ranch cook was busy cooking. Argentinians are meat eaters, they love anything roasted. Remember this guy is cooking for 50-60 people.
Read MoreLa Sortija" (the ring) is played with two upright wooden posts about ten feet high, crossed by a beam ... In the middle of this cross-beam, and underneath loosely suspended a brass ring. A Gaucho, galloping at the fastest beneath this, and using a wooden dowel attempts to put the ring on his dowel all the while on horseback and riding as fast as possible. The younger gauchos could not compete with the older gaucho and he won the game. He rode over to my wife and gave her the brass ring. I think it was because she spoke fluent Spanish and connected with them.
During the morning show of horsemanship, the ranch cook was busy cooking. Argentinians are meat eaters, they love anything roasted. Remember this guy is cooking for 50-60 people.