How to Start Barrel Racing

Barrel racing was an event created by women to challenge one another. They would use their husbands' fastest roping horses and go around big oil drums which were set up in a cloverleaf pattern. The one who completed the course the fastest was the winner. So how does one start barrel racing? I have listed a few things you should know if you decide to compete in the exciting sport of barrel racing.

Things You'll Need

  • Horse
  • Cowboy hat
  • Spurs
  • Proper riding attire
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Instructions

  1. How to Start Barrel Racing

    • 1

      To start, both horse and rider should be healthy both physically and mentally. This sporty requires you to have a lot of stamina and good concentration. You and your horse are a team and should work well together.

    • 2

      A fast horse is best for this sport. The horse should be well-schooled and mannered. It must know his leads, stop when its asked to, back up and be agile.

    • 3

      To start practicing you need to set up the barrels in a cloverleaf pattern. This means there are three barrels. One is on the right, one is on the left and the last one in the middle. If you were to look down on it from above it would look like a triangle.

    • 4

      Get to know the pattern well and practice it a few times a week if both you and the horse are new to the sport. Horses learn by repetition and practicing will make you both better. Keep in mind that barrel racing is a timed event where every second counts.

    • 5

      Don't over do it if your horse is new to this sport. Make it a fun experience for him. You do not want to sour the horse before you have even started.

    • 6

      Most of all, if you want to barrel race just go out there and give it your best and have fun doing it!