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Rocklin, CA.  Iparreko Ibarra was founded in 2005 with the goal of perpetuating the Basque culture and identity in northern California.  Since its founding the club has held an annual Besta at McBean Park in Lincoln.  This year’s event took place on October 8^th and was well attended.  The festivities began with a mus tournament for seniors and for juniors.  Winners took away their share of a 50/50 pot as well as a winner’s plaque.

Following the tournament the popular tri-tip sandwiches were served for lunch.  After lunch attendees were entertained by San Francisco’s Zazpiak Bat dancers as well as by the Iparreko Ibarra group.  Later in the afternoon kids’ activities were organized and there was a weight carrying competition.  In the evening dinner including BBQ lamb and chicken was served, and then dance music was provided by the Jean Flesher and Rene Caballero band.

[Dinner at Roclin's 7th Annual Besta (Photo Mike Uro)]

Congressman John Garamendi, 10^th Congressional District representative from California was also in attendance.   Garamendi was elected to the US House of Representatives in November of 2009.  He frequently attends Basque events in the area including events at the San Francisco Basque Cultural Center and even at the Center for Basque Studies in Reno, NV.