How to Flag Race

A flag race, also known as a gymkhana or o-mok-see, is an equestrian event where riders compete against either to see who can move a flag from one barrel to another in the fastest time. The game uses a specific setup that makes it considerably more difficult than it sounds for both the rider and the horse. The short time needed to win makes seconds incredibly valuable.

Things You'll Need

  • Horse with a saddle
  • Riding area
  • 2 55-gallon closed metal barrels
  • 2 5-gallon buckets
  • Pole (or another 55-gallon barrel)
  • Small flag on a stick
  • Rabbit pellets
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Instructions

  1. Setup

    • 1

      Set a 55-gallon closed metal barrel 18 feet from the start line. Pour rabbit pellets into one of the 5-gallon buckets until it is approximately three-quarters full. Sand may be used as a substitute for the rabbit pellets but isn't used under rodeo conditions. Plant a small flag on a stick into the bucket and place the bucket on top of the barrel.

    • 2

      Place a pole or another 55-gallon closed metal barrel another 18 feet away from the first barrel, at an angle of 36 degrees.

    • 3

      Place a 55-gallon closed metal barrel another 18 feet away from the pole, also at an angle of 36 degrees, so it creates a triangle with the first barrel and the pole. An acute angle should protrude from the pole or middle 55-gallon barrel. Pour rabbit pellets into another 5-gallon bucket until it is approximately three-quarters full, then place it on top of this final 55-gallon closed metal barrel.

    Racing

    • 4

      Mount your horse and ride to the starting line.

    • 5

      Ride from the starting line to the first barrel and grab the flag out of the bucket while passing.

    • 6

      Turn the horse and ride around the pole, then ride toward the second barrel.

    • 7

      Place the flag in the second bucket. The rider that plants the flag in the second bucket fastest wins the race.