As part of the last three day weekend course of 2006, students and
guests attended the tienta on Saturday, where vaquillas were first
tested by matador Borba, before being passed over to students. It is
always an excellent opportunity to gain experience and knowledge of
toreo by giving passes to different types of animal, whilst benefitting
from the comments and expertise of Dennis Borba. At least three of
the heifers were exceptionally good, charging time after time, good
on both the right and left sides.
Also present was a film crew, making a documentary for television
about bullfighting in the United States. The documentary will show
footage of Dennis Borba, the only active US matador, instructing his
students in the ring.
After the young cattle had been tested and the students had all had a
chance to put into practice what they had learned from the classes,
matador Borba gave passes, with both capote and muleta, to a three
and a half year old novillo. The enourmous difference in size
between this animal and the previous ones was very obvious to all
present, and made an impressive end to a long and enjoyable event.
Thank you Dennis and Luciana Borba for the welcoming atmosphere
that is always a big part of the courses.
Below: Dennis Borba, wired for sound, instructs a student during the
tienta.
