Staring Death In The Face*

Had my 1st ever visit to a bullfight today. Went w/Sandra and her family.

It is quite the spectacle and the atmosphere is electric to say the least. As close to a gladiatorial arena as I will get, that's for sure.

This was one of the hardest Blip choices, I've ever had to make. Over 250 photos taken and at least 5 of which really stood out (for me). It's taken me an age to settle on this one, because it seems to best sum up the atmosphere and what a bullfight is all about. This is the moment just before the matador plunged his sword through the back of the shoulder blades and through the heart of this mighty animal.

Here is some more of the BETTER PHOTOS that I took that day.

Can't say that I'm a fan of bloodsports, especially here, as the odds are just so heavily staked against the bull. I even found myself shouting for the bulls at one point. Not that I wanted to see anybody get gored, but it's just not a fair fight.

The rules and customs of the bullfight are fascinating to say the least and there is no denying the supreme skill of some of the matadors in getting so close to and essentially controlling a 1/2 ton beast. The crowd will violently boo a matador, who is unnecessarily cruel (or poor) at finishing of a bull, as they will heartily roar their appreciation of a bull that has proved to be a worthy opponent and a real fighter.

Though all told, I'm glad that I went and I had a great time, it's just that I won't be buying a season ticket!

*Best viewed large.