"Jumping the Stream"
"Saltar o Rego"
By Joaquim Coelho
Translated By Ana Odete Matos
A centenary tradition, the pagan part of Easter Christian celebrations, “Saltar o Rego” is the name given to the horse races which take place on Easter Mondays.
This name is due to the fact that 50 years ago there was a narrow stream of water crossing the Alumieira Square in Loureiro.
Related to Easter celebrations there used to be a great annual fair in which animals, particularly horses and donkeys were sold.
The sellers, in order to show the qualities of these animals, cantered for some metres and made them jump that stream, usually used to irrigate the neighbouring fields. The horses, the mules, the donkeys were sold after being tested in that ritual jump.
Long long ago, this tradition had just an utilitarian function, i. e. the aim was showing the physical qualities of the animals to potential buyers.
But this practical function has been slowly lost. As the number of spectators grew they became more and more enthusiastic and amused with that equestrian show. Gradually, “Saltar o Rego” had merged into the great Easter fair, giving it a unique characteristic identity. Other events joined: “ranchos” (folk dance groups), “bandas de música” (musical bands) and musical groups too; the bumper carsand the typical fair taverns “tasquinhas”.
That fair associated to animals and agricultural tools disappeared to give way to a popular open air gathering “arraial”.
Nowadays “Saltar o Rego” is the name given to the horse races which take place on a path about 200 metres long near Alumieira Square.
According to the number of participants, there are two types of races: the heats and the finals and the winners are awarded at the end.
This
activity attracts thousands of visitors and
keeps its ancient name honouring these centenary tradition.
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