Our First Bullfight - 58th Anniversary of Bullfighting in Mexico
The first bullfight was held in Spain in 1133 in honor of the coronation of King Alfonso VIII. Thanks to Bernardo (Jan's operations counterpart at work) and his family, Jan & I attended the grand 58th anniversary of bullfighting coming to Mexico. This was held in the world's largest bullfighting ring, right here in Mexico City. There were 8 bulls on the scedule for the evening, with the last matador calling for a 9th bull--which he then paid for.
Bullfights are divided into 3 stages called "tercios". When the horns blow to announce the first stage, the bull runs in and pretty much just chases everyone around the ring. Several matadores use their capes to try to control the bull while assessing its strength and speed. Then the picadores, mounted on blindfolded, armored horses, enter the ring. They spear the back of the bull with long metal-tipped pikes in order to weaken the bull. The audience always whistles during this part because they don't want the picadores to weaken the bull too much.
The next stage is La Suerte de Banderillas, where matadores stick pairs of long feathered darts into the attacking bulls's back in order to further weaken it.
In the final stage, the Matador leads the bull around the ring with a small red cape, the Matador dodges and taunts the bull and shows the spectators his power and courage. After his display of showmanship, the Matador attempts to bring the bull to a strategic spot in the arena where he will deliver the "estocada" (killing sword thrust) into the neck of the bull. If done properly, the sword severs the aorta and kills the bull instantly. The bullfight ends at this point and trophies are awarded to the matador, depending on his bravery and skill.
While watching 8 of the 9 bulls, all but one of them fell down and died immediately when this was done...of course, watching the one improperly killed bull writhe on the ground while it died wasn't pleasant. When the matador is brave and lets the bull pass within millimeters of him, he is rewarded with an ear from the bull he just killed. If he shows spectacular form, he will receive two hears. If he is exceptional, he will get both ears and the tail! However, this only happens a couple of times per year in the entire world of bullfighting.
As a special treat for this anniversary event, some of the best matadores were brought in from Spain. This included one matador who remained on horseback!
