Barrel Racing Events in Minnesota

Slip on a pair of boots, grab your cowboy hat and head out for an afternoon of quick turns at a Minnesota barrel racing competition. The racing season traditionally begins at the start of March and runs through the end of September. Barrel racers compete for both points and cash prizes. The Minnesota Barrel Racing Association annually inducts the top riders and stallions into its Horse Hall of Fame.

  1. Race for the Roses

    • Younger riders have the chance to participate along with adults.

      The annual Race for the Roses offers open riding sessions, equestrian exhibits, and peewee, youth and open classes for barrel racing. The United Barrel Racing Association-sanctioned competition also boasts pole-bending competitions. The three-day weekend event, held around the first Saturday in May to coincide with the Kentucky Derby (the Run for the Roses), includes a church service and charitable fundraisers. For example, organizers designated the proceeds from one 2010 race to a child with a brain tumor. An awards ceremony closes the Race for the Roses. Division honors, based on the best average race times, carry trophies or cash prizes. Side pots are available for futurity horses and senior (50-and-older) riders. Additional awards recognize barrel skills, pole expertise and target times. The Race for the Roses takes place along the Otter Tail River at Red Horse Ranch Arena.

      Race for the Roses
      Red Horse Ranch Arena
      22672 County Highway 10
      Fergus Falls, MN 56537
      612-384-6730
      race4roses.com

    Falcon Ridge Barrel Burners

    • Side pots are common for futurity horses.

      The Falcon Ridge Barrel Burners event features peewee barrel competitions for children ages 8 and under, as well as youth and open contests. Side-pot futurity horses must be 5 or younger. The winners in each division earn award jackets. Second-place finishers in each age division get award halters. The Oasis Equestrian Center features indoor and outdoor arenas, as well as barrel racing classes and clinics.

      Falcon Ridge Barrel Burners UBRA Barrel Race
      Oasis Equestrian Center
      13356 347th St.
      Lindstrom, MN 55045
      651-462-2129
      oasisequestrian.com

    Rocking D' Acres NBHA

    • Arrive early for a good spot to see the action.

      The National Barrel Horse Association competition at Rocking D' Acres offers horse exhibitions and multiple age group barrel racing over two days. Novice to senior experienced riders compete for cash prizes and awards. Participants must board their horses on site for the entire weekend. You can buy stall shavings at registration; outside bedding is not permitted. Riders and spectators can feast on vinegar fries, shaved ice and freshly grilled meat at concession stands. Quarter horses also will be available for sale during the barrel racing weekend. Rocking D' Acres features outdoor arenas and fenced riding areas.

      Rocking D' Acres NBHA
      R&J Arena
      16498 U.S. Highway 10
      Verndale, MN 56481
      218-756-2576
      sundbyenterprises.com