Tejo: Combining Alcohol and Explosives

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Although tejo is a national Colombian sport, I was not introduced to it until I reached the quiet town of Salento. I quickly became a devoted follower of this peculiar game that involves hurling a metal disk at a mud backdrop with the goal of making things explode...I mean, who wouldn't be? Actually...how is this NOT a thing in the American south? If there's one thing I bring back to the states, this'll be it!

 Here's the jist of tejo: It's very similar to horseshoes, but with a few more rules and explosive bangs!

 The tejo itself is a metal disk that is lobbed at a square backdrop of mud. A metal ring is placed in the center of the ring and four small paper packets containing gunpowder are placed on the four poles of the ring. The paper must be touching the ring, and not the mud, or an explosion will not occur. When I played, we divided into pairs to compete against each other. Each person has one chance to lob their tejo. 

 While the main goal is to hit the gunpowder, there is a point system to the game to make it fun and competitive.
  • Inside circle + explosion = 9 points
  • Inside circle = 6 points
  • Explosion = 3 points
  • Closest to circle = 1 point
Each person has one attempt unless someone hits the gunpowder. Once there's an explosion, you move on the next round. The team who won the point gets to start the next round.  Obviously, the beginners achieve pretty low point values. I was so excited when I had my first explosion that I attracted the attention of the nearby Colombians (who actually knew what they were doing) and everyone had a good laugh at my expense. Nothing new :)

One of the best things about tejo is that it's free to play...you just pay for the beers as you go! What a great deal. Here is a clip of me doing a terrible job throwing the tejo for your enjoyment. I was feeling cocky because I had just hit the gunpowder, so naturally, my next throw was abysmal. I think it's more authentic!


Also, here is a clip from Anthony Bourdain's show, "Parts Unknown" that shows the magic of tejo! I love everything that man does!


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