When you think of Colombia, you might picture its vibrant cities, coffee plantations, or stunning landscapes. However, we also have a traditional sport that encapsulates the spirit and culture of Colombia: Tejo (té-ho). With deep roots in indigenous history, Tejo is a unique and exhilarating game that has become a beloved pastime for many Colombians.
Tejo today stands as Colombia’s national sport, however, the reallity is that many colombians outside the central Andes have never played it and don’t even know its rules. Just to get an idea, in the whole Medellín area there are more than 500 football (soccer) fields, however there are not more than 10 fields to play Tejo.
Click here to get a survival guide on how to go to a Football Game in Medellin
Still, that should not minimize the fact that it’s a fun game to play and that it is absolutely unique to Colombia.
The Fascinating History of Tejo
Tejo traces its origins back to the indigenous Muisca people, who lived in the central highlands of Colombia (where today is Bogotá and Boyacá region), why explains why it’s not a popular game in the Paisa region where Medellin is located. They called it “Turmequé”, this game was more than just entertainment; it played a role in social and ceremonial gatherings.
Over centuries, Tejo evolved, integrating new elements (such as gunpowder and beers) while preserving its core traditions, that’s why it is mostly played through the country side inside bars where farmers gather to get have some beers and catch up. Having said this, it’s important to highlight there are people who play this game rather seriously as a sport (no booze included!) but it is mostly a game played while drinking some beers.
How to Play Tejo
– Objective
The goal of Tejo is simple yet thrilling: throw a heavy metal disc (the Tejo) at a target (the bocín) embedded in a clay-filled box, aiming to trigger small explosive packets called “mechas.” The explosions add an exciting element to the game, making each throw an anticipated event.
– Equipment
- Tejo: A metal disc weighing around 680 grams. (In the indigenous times, the disc was made of solid gold!)
- Bocín: A metal ring set into a clay box.
- Mechas: Small packets of gunpowder placed around the bocín.
- Cancha: The clay box where the bocín and mechas are situated.
- Friends & Beers*: If you want to have fun.
Rules and Scoring
Players, either individually or in teams, take turns throwing the Tejo from a distance of 18-22 meters. Points are awarded as follows:
- Nine points for landing the tejo inside the bocín (metal ring) and simultanuesly causing a mecha to explode.
- Six points for only causing a mecha to explode.
- Three points for having the tejo closest to the bocín without an explosion.
- One point for the tejo closest to the bocín if no other points are scored.
- The first team to reach a predetermined score, usually 21 points (it could also be 27), wins the game.
Where to Play Tejo in Medellín
As mentioned previoulsy, Tejo is not the most popular game in Medellín. An out of the few places, most of them are fields to play it seriously, not for drinking. We have decided to list the places where you can have some fun, so here are some top spots where you can enjoy this traditional sport:
Location: La Herencia, Llano Grande, Rionegro
A friendly and popular spot among locals, Los Amigos offers a casual environment perfect for both beginners and seasoned players. They also have a bar and restaurant, making it a great place to spend an evening.
Location: Mercados del Rio Cl. 24 #48-28, Medellín, Antioquia, Colombia
A closer to the city option, this place allows you to have some drinks and food with friends while trying to hit the mecha with your tejo.
Experiencing Tejo: Tips for Beginners
- Start Slow: If you’re new to Tejo, start with a few practice throws to get a feel for the weight and balance of the Tejo disc.
- Listen to Locals: Don’t hesitate to ask for tips from local players; Colombians are proud of their sport and usually happy to help newcomers.
- Enjoy the Social Aspect: Tejo is as much about socializing as it is about playing. Enjoy the communal atmosphere, have a drink, and make some new friends.
Hope you have fun playing it!
