Understanding How Barrel Races Developed

By Anne Kelley


Horse events fan know that barrel races are events that are worth witnessing. Such displays of skills and horsemanship are expected during such events. However, one can observe that most competitors are women. Discovering the background of these events will help give an understanding why is this so.

The exact dates when this type of racing originated is not really known. However, its roots can be traced back around 1930s when young ladies joined horsemanship competitions which involves riding horses in figure of eight patterns around two barrels. According to legend, it was the state of Texas where this type of racing first originated. Even women want to participate in rodeo events there but this was mostly dominated by men only. Therefore, they made their own event.

Throughout the second World War, women rodeo events were increasing in popularity. However, it became overshadowed when men dominated again in this sports such as roping and bronc riding. It is commonly believed that the pattern of cloverleaf emerged on 1935. However, there was another judging criteria. It was only around 1949 when Girl Rodeo Association was formed making the rules. This was renamed during 1981 and is known as Women Professional Rodeo Association now.

This event could be organized focusing on it only or as a part of a rodeo or horse show. It has become highly competitive as it involves horses with extreme athletic ability and a rider with unparalleled horsemanship skills. They compete for the fastest record maneuvering in clover leaf patterns around barrels arranged triangularly inside arenas.

The usual time being clocked in modern races is generally around fifteen seconds. The record holder has completion rate of 13.52 seconds. The name of that record holder is Brandie Halls who accomplished that feat on 2006. Most groups will also require racers to wear attires such as boots, long sleeve shirts, and hats. Players losing their hats during games will be fined.

The competition, though fast and simple is so tough on horses. Hence, special breeding is needed. Some of these horses will have to travel long miles before joining events. If the horse does not have the needed stamina, he would then be too tired upon reaching events. An industry of horse breeding arouse to answer to this need unlike the former days when horses that were used were rejects from other horse events.

Over the years, it has evolved into an event that is solely for women only. However, there are some groups which allow men to compete. There are clubs and associations which offer youth training in this discipline. However, its increasing popularity have made it into a sport that is well suited for families, not just for women anymore. It is now common to see men in these events.

Such is the progress with this sports. It has traveled a long way already, survived, and gained more popularity. Unlike before when women were only having it for fun only, a serious industry and sport have risen from it. Men are seriously training for this and horse breeding is focusing to address to this sport. This sport can now be a major event in itself.

Barrel races, as a form of entertainment, is sure to capture the attention of horse race fans. No matter its simplicity, this sport shows seriousness of skills which requires extreme preparations and selection of only the best horses. Those witnessing it are sure to fulfill their expectations.




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