Darren Charges Strong

GOES AHEAD - APSAROKE photographed by Edward Curtis (left) and DARREN CHARGES STRONG by John Graybill for The Descendants Project (right).

Descendants photo © Curtis Legacy Foundation 2022
Written By: Shawnee Real Bird ©2024 Curtis Legacy Foundation

Darren Charges Strong sits among his horses, gazing at a beautifully preserved sepia-toned photograph of his Crow (Aápsalooke) ancestor, Goes Ahead (born in 1851). This photograph, a tangible link to his past, exudes a timeless aura. It captures the weathered lines etched on his great-great-great-grandfather's face, each line a testament to a life not easily lived. Darren takes in every detail, from the determined set of Goes Ahead's jaw to the light in his eyes. He acknowledges the unwavering spirit of a Crow warrior, a spirit that he sees mirrored in his own journey.

Darren Charges Strong was born and raised on the Crow Reservation in Southeastern Montana. He developed a fascination with horses from a young age. Watching his father, Darren Sr., train and race horses inspired his dream of riding at high speeds. At 13, he began his career in Indian Relay racing, mastering the track and his team's dynamics. These skills led him to win his first world championship at just 16 years old in 2013.

After becoming World Champion, Darren continued to win important Indian Relay races across the U.S. as a teenager. However, the thrills of success faded as he struggled with life on the reservation, succumbing to drugs and alcohol. This led to repeated stints in jail until he had a transformative vision, a turning point in his life that can inspire hope and personal growth in others.

Darren was drawn to a significant cloud while hunting near the Big Horn mountains—an area sacred to the Crow people. On holy ground, he witnessed the emergence of a majestic figure in the sky. This vision, a turning point in his life, filled him with a sense of purpose and hope. Climbing a nearby hill for a better view, he dropped to his knees, believing Jesus Christ was coming to save him.

After much perseverance, Darren secured a job in Lodge Grass, a place known as the Valley of the Chiefs. Recognizing this opportunity to become self-sufficient and provide for his family, Darren committed entirely to the role. This position would be a significant step toward realizing his vision, a testament to his resilience and determination that can inspire others.

Today, Darren's commitment to nurturing the future of the sport of Indian relay and mentoring the next generation is unwavering. He has become a beacon of hope and a positive role model for young Indigenous men who aspire to become successful Indian relay riders. Inspired by the vision he received from Jesus Christ, Darren focuses his efforts as a leader on sharing the everlasting love that was given to him, inspiring others with his dedication and impact.

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