Independent Lens

Indian Relay

The hope and determination of American Indian life is revealed in this story about what it takes to win one of the most exciting and dangerous forms of horseracing in the world today. This film follows teams from three different communities as they prepare for and compete across a grueling Indian Relay season — all hearts set on the glory and honor of winning this year's National Championships.

Are You an Indian?

5m 25s

In this companion piece to the documentary film We Still Live Here - As Nutayunean, Wampanoag tribal members discuss how their multicultural heritage both complicates and enriches their identities as Native American people.

Previews + Extras

  • Coming Soon to Independent Lens: Indian Relay: asset-mezzanine-16x9

    Coming Soon to Independent Lens: Indian Relay

    S15 E3 - 30s

    Indian Relay documents an unheralded aspect of modern-day Native American life and what it takes to win one of the more exciting forms of horse racing. From the bitter cold of winter to the heat of summer, the film follows teams from three different tribes as they compete across a grueling season.

  • Indian Relay: The Rituals and Rules: asset-mezzanine-16x9

    Indian Relay: The Rituals and Rules

    S15 E3 - 3m 5s

    In this excerpt from the Independent Lens documentary, Indian Relay, members of the M&M Express team perform a pre-race ritual, then the rules of the race are explained.

  • Indian Relay: Fierce Competition and Strong Bonds: asset-mezzanine-16x9

    Indian Relay: Fierce Competition and Strong Bonds

    S15 E3 - 3m 57s

    In this excerpt from the Independent Lens documentary, Indian Relay, the competition intensifies as "the big races" begin. However, competitors still maintain respect for one another, especially as, in some cases, they may actually be family members.

  • Indian Relay: Moments of Reflection Before the Races: asset-mezzanine-16x9

    Indian Relay: Moments of Reflection Before the Races

    S15 E3 - 3m 6s

    In this excerpt from the Independent Lens documentary, Indian Relay, we witness some of the quieter moments between races, when racers and managers have time to reflect on the challenges ahead.

WETA Passport

Stream tens of thousands of hours of your PBS and local favorites with WETA Passport whenever and wherever you want. Catch up on a single episode or binge-watch full seasons before they air on TV.