Understanding How Barrel Races Developed

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.

When it comes to the period when it originated, not much is known. However, one thing ca be ascertained, that it traces around 1930s. During that period, women are more empowered to display their horsemanship skills to level those of men. However, the sports is more dominated with men. These are rodeo shows. The Texas state was the place where the barrel race began. Women created their own events by using obstacles which horses have to run around.

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.

If one makes a career out of them, these events require the tandem of the best horses and riders in order to be successful. This is needed as the demands of this sport could not be met by ordinary horses or riders alone. The rider should know well how to maneuver horses which are in turn very athletic. This maneuvering requires high horsemanship skills as fast completion involving sudden turns is needed to win.

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.

Competition is so tough and standards are too high that an experienced rider have to get the best horse possible. In the past, the horses being used were only rejects who could not perform well in racing, cutting, or reigning. However, horses are now bred just for this type of event. These breeds possess the speed and ability to keep their bodies in control so that precise, quick turns are handled well.

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.

Such is the progress with this sports. It has traveled a long way already, survived, and gained more popularity. Unlike before when women were only having it for fun only, a serious industry and sport have risen from it. Men are seriously training for this and horse breeding is focusing to address to this sport. This sport can now be a major event in itself.

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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