
Relay teams from across the United States and Canada gathered at Emerald Downs June 12 through 14 for the 10th Annual Muckleshoot Gold Cup Indian Relay.
The three day competition featured some of the sport's top riders, horses and support crews, all competing for championship honors in one of Indian Country's premier relay events. Throughout the weekend, fans witnessed dramatic finishes, hard fought races and the horse exchanges that make Indian relay racing one of the most exciting competitions in Native sports.
Success in relay racing depends on more than speed. Riders, holders and muggers must work together with precision and trust as horses are exchanged during the race. A single mistake or delay can quickly change the outcome, making every race unpredictable until the finish line.
The annual event brought together tribes and First Nations from across North America. As the Muckleshoot Gold Cup marked its 10th year, competitors and spectators alike gathered to honor the sport and the generations of riders who continue to keep the tradition alive.

In June, Muckleshoot witnessed the graduation of 42 Muckleshoot Tribal Members with college degrees and 134 Muckleshoot Tribal Members who earned their technical education and vocational certificates.

Muckleshoot celebrated its Warrior traditions and veterans service with Tribes from around the region at the 2025 Veterans Powwow last month. Photos courtesy of Danielle Wilcox.

Councilwoman Cross joined retired Seattle University professor Fr. Pat Twohy, S.J., to celebrate his 86th birthday and the recent publication of his latest book, syəyaʔaʔ: Coast Salish Sacred Lifeways and the Sacred Lifeways of Jesus.

The Muckleshoot Tribal Council, Muckleshoot Intergovernmental Affairs, and our D.C. team were actively engaged since the BBB’s inception in January to ensure that the Tribe’s sovereignty and treaty rights were protected in this process.
The Muckleshoot Messenger is a monthly Tribal publication. Tribal community members and Tribal employees are welcome to submit items to the newspaper such as announcements, birth news, birthday shoutouts, community highlights, and more. We want to hear from you!