The Development Of Barrel Races

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 World War II All Women Rodeos were common. However, it decreased in popularity when men dominated in events such as bronc riding and roping again. It is believed that barrel racing changed to cloverleaf pattern during 1935 but is judged in another way until the year 1949 when women formed Girls Rodeo Association which was then renamed around 1981 as Women Professional Rodeo Association.

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.

One complete run usually takes a quarter of a minute. This is the general record for most competitors. The world record holder is a woman whose name is Brandie. She managed to complete the run after 13.52 seconds, and she did it on 2006. Some events require attires. These attires may include hats, long sleeves, and boots. Losing the hat during a game will subject one to fines.

During its early years, the horses used were mostly rejects. Those who do not do well in reigning, cutting, and racing were used as the sport was not that serious during its early stages. However, with the popularity and given the tough competition, special breeding is needed to produce that type which can meet the demands of such events.

The event further developed and succeeded after a few years. Majority of events have women since women started it. However, it is gaining more popularity as a family oriented sports nowadays where men and even youth can join. Such popularity caused associations to give trainings to those interested no matter what the gender is. Men are now often seen joining these events.

This sport has traveled a long way already considering how much it has progressed from fairly simple beginnings. Unlike the former years when it was done as an alternative sport for women, it has now gone into a serious sport that even men are seeing the thrill of it and are joining them already. Horses are now specially bred just for this sport and riders give their best and exert much time and effort just to excel in this area.

Barrel races provide entertainment that is not complicated to understand to watchers. However, despite its simplicity, there exists a serious sport which requires extreme preparation for it. Those who are into horse racing will surely enjoy witnessing such events.




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