Barrel Races Are Not Just For Women Anymore

By Freda Watts


Barrel racing is the biggest event for women on the rodeo circuit. The event involves riding around three barrels set in a diamond pattern in a field. Riders must direct their mounts through a clover leaf pattern. Barrel races take less than 17 seconds to complete. Competitors are often so close there are hundredths of a second separating one from another.

This popular activity has risen from a modest start during the 1930s. Texas is attributed to being the state where it was first competitively introduced at the Stamford, Texas Cowboy Reunion. This was a weekend rodeo which in 1932 included a horsemanship program for girls that involved riding in a figure eight pattern while circling barrel obstacles.

In 1935, the figure eight was changed to a clover leaf pattern, which has become universalized. In the early period, the pattern alternated between a figure eight and its eventual successor. Eventually the more challenging design became dominant as the figure eight was dropped in favor of the more difficult pattern. The race was not judged according to the shortest time run until 1949.

Racing around barrels appeals to fans and riders who appreciate its demands. The rider and horse must take taut turns at high speed without hitting the barrels. This requires speed, agility and strength and tests the special alchemy between horse and rider.

The first obstacle has been described as the money barrel by competitors. This is because it sets the tone for the rest of the run. The sport has seen some major progress over the years. This is exemplified by the mounts, which were earlier discards found unsuitable for other riding trials. Now skilled trainers have prepared them for this specialized use.

Breeding programs are raising horses specifically for this purpose as well. The ideal horse has to fast and able to control its pace. It needs to maintain its composure to make the precise turns of the race course at a high speed. Travel schedules can test endurance. The horse needs to handle the stress and keep the hunger to win alive.

Specific temperamental traits and physical characteristics in a mount make them better competitors. In the end, it is the harmonious relationship between the rider and steed that ultimately leads to successful executions. At the moment the quarter horse dominates the equine part of this relationship primarily because this breed excels at bursts of speed over short distances. Appaloosas are also among the popular breeds used. They are known for their endurance and for being an intelligent breed that is sturdy, fast and sure footed. Paint horses and Arabians are also good for this event. A Paint is known for its friendly intelligence, for being athletic with strong with muscular hind legs. This breed is has a good weight distribution and a low center of gravity because of its small stature. Arabians have a long history of human contact that makes the very compatible for human handling. Their spirit is an advantage for this tough task.

Progress continues. Enhanced attributes are being developed by focused breeding programs. Improvements in training techniques have brought greater technical refinement. Men have entered the sort formerly restricted to women alone. Their participation has led to a surge in organizations established for the male fraternity. Preparation for barrel races reaches into youth programs that train young riders. These are offered by racing organizations and regional and local associations. This activity can be enjoyed by the entire family.




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