Barrel racing is an equestrian event where a rider and horse complete a cloverleaf course around barrels in the shortest time possible. The sport was designed primarily for women, and the rider must have a well-trained horse and be familiar with the proper equipment. Certain rules and regulations apply, and the course must be completed within 60 seconds.
A barrel racer is a person who participates in the sport of barrel racing, which is an equestrian event in which rider and horse attempt to complete a cloverleaf course in the shortest possible time. The course is marked by large barrels, and the barrel racer will often try to guide the horse very close to the barrels during turns to cut down on time. The sport was designed primarily for women, although young boys and girls can also participate in the event; it is less common for men.
While this is not always the case, a barrel racer may be responsible for raising and training the horse he rides during the event. The rider usually develops a rapport with the horse in order to help respond during the race, and the horse must be strong and well trained to participate in barrel races. The barrel racer must therefore spend a significant amount of time riding the horse on and off the course; a well-trained horse is less likely to injure itself or its rider and less likely to be sluggish around the barrels.
A barrel racer must also be familiar with the proper equipment used for the event. Special bits, saddles and bridles may be used, although this equipment is determined by the rider’s preference and, in some cases, the type of horse. Before a race, the barrel racer will often make several dry runs along the course to prepare for the race and prepare the horse for the rigors of the course. Some riders will have trainers who will help figure out the best plan of attack for a given course.
Certain rules and regulations apply to the rider and horse. The rider must wear a long-sleeved, Western-style shirt that is tucked in and must follow course-specific rules. Contact cannot be made with the barrel, or a time penalty will be applied. If both rider and horse go off course, the rider will be disqualified or given a “no time” rating. The objective of the race is to complete the course as quickly as possible without coming into contact with any of the barrels or leaving the course during the official race time. The course must be completed within 60 seconds.
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