The Sport of Tejo in Colombia

Tejo has been played in Colombia since before the arrival of the Spanish Conquistadors in the 16th century, and remains popular today.

© Luis Perez | Flickr

One reason for its popularity may be the fact Tejo is often played while swigging copious amounts of beer. The game is one of accuracy, which may be reduced after a few cold ones, but that doesn’t stop the Colombians downing lager as they play.

Tejo takes its name from the metal discs which each player has to throw toward a target, which is usually around 20 meters away. Players compete for points: one if their disc lands closer to the target than their opponent’s; three if they hit the gunpowder on the edge of the target; six if their Tejo lands within the target; and nine if all of the previously mentioned phenomena happen in one shot.

Cancha de Tejo, Salento, Colombia © But For The Sky | Flickr

While the inclusion of alcohol may make Tejo seem like a rather casual affair, it is, in fact, highly competitive. Leagues are held in many rural villages, and it’s not just other players you are competing against. Stories abound of gunpowder exploding without warning and with players losing eyes and fingers as they collect their Tejo.

If it sounds slightly dangerous mixing alcohol and explosives, that’s because it most certainly is. But it’s also great fun and an amazing way to make friends on your way around Colombia.