Born: 1986 (Morelia, Michoacán, Mexico)
Biography:
Hilda Eliana Tenorio Patiño, born on June 11, 1986, in Morelia, Michoacán, Mexico, is a trailblazing figure in the world of bullfighting. She made history as the first woman to receive her alternativa, a traditional ceremony marking the transition from novillera to matador, in the Plaza de Toros México, the largest bullring in the world. At the young age of 24, Tenorio accomplished this remarkable feat, solidifying her place in the annals of bullfighting history.
Born to Fernando Tenorio Cabrera and Hilda Patiño, Tenorio displayed exceptional academic prowess during her youth. Her academic journey was replete with accolades, receiving various recognitions in elementary, middle, and high school. Notably, she was awarded the prestigious Premio Padre de la Patria, a local award given in Michoacán. Tenorio’s thirst for knowledge and intellectual growth eventually led her to pursue a law degree at the prestigious Universidad Michoacana de San Nicolás de Hidalgo, where she graduated with honors.
However, Tenorio’s passion for bullfighting began to take shape at the age of 13. Under the guidance of her teacher Rutilo Morales, she embarked on a training journey that would see her ascend to unparalleled heights in the world of bullfighting. On May 30, 2001, Tenorio had her first performance as a becerrista in Salvatierra, Guanajuato, where she shared the arena with fellow bullfighter Joselito Adame. This marked the beginning of her professional bullfighting career.
After honing her skills as a becerrista through an extensive tour in various parts of Mexico, including two performances in the Plaza de Toros México, Tenorio officially debuted as a bullfighter on October 10, 2003. Her impressive performance on that day earned her the traditional honor of being carried out of the bullring on the shoulders of men, highlighting the reception she received from the audience. Just nine days later, on October 19, she wowed the crowd with a groundbreaking performance, executing a pair of banderillas in a maneuver she later attributed as her invention, The Double Pair (El par doble).
Tenorio’s skill and dedication resulted in a string of victories during the novillero seasons at the Plaza de Toros México in 2003, 2004, and 2005. These accomplishments solidified her position as a rising star and garnered her widespread recognition and acclaim within the bullfighting community.
Beyond her impressive achievements in the bullring, Tenorio has been a passionate advocate for feminism in the traditionally male-dominated world of bullfighting. Her trailblazing journey as the first woman to receive her alternativa in the Plaza de Toros México has not only shattered barriers but has also opened doors for other aspiring female bullfighters. Tenorio’s determination to challenge societal norms and demand equality has made her a prominent figure in the fight for gender equality in the realm of bullfighting.
Awards:
– Winner of the 2003, 2004, and 2005 novillero seasons at the Plaza de Toros México.