That's the one, kat! Not the show but the mode of travel. I watched a couple of videos; it's fascinating. They flow down the poles. I would love to see it in person- and I agree with both of you: had we known about it when we were kids we'd still be doing it today. :)

I don't know enough Spanish - did you catch what wood the poles are made from? I don't suppose that maple grows there. Might it be ash or a similar timber?

In the part of the show I saw there was nothing about competition but it makes sense. Everything that takes skill and is dangerous in everyday life tends to transmogrify into competition.

Thank you for the swift response. I have a friend who wants me to send the information on to him.