Teec Nos Pos — It truly meant a lot to be back home in my community this past weekend, surrounded by familiar faces and the spirit of our people, as I attended the 2026 Dash for Cash Authentic Horse Race.
Over the past four years, I’ve had the honor of supporting and attending this event, and each time it leaves a deeper impression on my heart. Dash for Cash is more than a race. It’s a living expression of who we are as Diné. It carries our history, our values, and our connection to the land and to one another.
This year’s 32+ mile endurance relay brought together 18 riders who gave everything they had on that course. You could feel the determination in every stride, the discipline in every exchange, and the pride in every team. These riders aren’t just competing. They are carrying forward a tradition rooted in strength, respect, and horsemanship that has been part of our people for generations.
Once again, I want to congratulate this year’s winners:
1st Place — Dinebito Racing (1:47:05)
2nd Place — Zia Gachupin (1:48:32)
3rd Place — Johnson Boys Racing (1:58:23)
But beyond the finish times, what stayed with me most was the feeling of unity. Families gathered, elders watched with pride, and young people witnessed something powerful. What it means to belong, to support one another, and to carry our traditions forward.
Thank you to everyone who made this event possible, from the organizers to the riders and the families who showed up in support. Moments like this remind me why we do this work. Our strength has always come from our people, our culture, and our connection to home.
