By Freda WattsBarrel racing is the biggest event for women on the rodeo circuit. The event involves riding around three barrels set in a diamond pattern in a field. Riders must direct their mounts through a clover leaf pattern. Barrel races take less than 17 seconds to complete. Competitors are often so close there are hundredths of a second separating one from another.
This crowd pleasing activity has risen from modest beginnings during the period marked by the Great Depression. Its origins have been traced to the Lone Star State. A small city in the western portion of Texas is recognized as being the location for the first recorded event. More specifically, it was first held at the Texas Cowboy Reunion in Stamford. This weekend rodeo in 1932 incorporated a horsemanship competition for girls in its program. The context required riders to race round barrels in a figure eight design.
In 1935, the figure eight was changed to a clover leaf pattern, which has become universalized. In the early period, the pattern alternated between a figure eight and its eventual successor. Eventually the more challenging design became dominant as the figure eight was dropped in favor of the more difficult pattern. The race was not judged according to the shortest time run until 1949.
Racing around barrels appeals to fans and riders who appreciate its demands. The rider and horse must take taut turns at high speed without hitting the barrels. This requires speed, agility and strength and tests the special alchemy between horse and rider.
The first obstacle has been described as the money barrel by competitors. This is because it sets the tone for the rest of the run. The sport has seen some major progress over the years. This is exemplified by the mounts, which were earlier discards found unsuitable for other riding trials. Now skilled trainers have prepared them for this specialized use.
Breeders are raising horses for this objective as well. The archetypal steed needs to be speedy and able to manage its velocity. It needs to preserve its poise and make the meticulous turns at high speeds required by the course. The busy travel schedules can also test endurance in a different way. The charger needs to maintain competitive hunger while taking tournament stresses in stride.
Specific temperamental traits and physical characteristics in a mount make them better competitors. In the end, it is the harmonious relationship between the rider and steed that ultimately leads to successful executions. At the moment the quarter horse dominates the equine part of this relationship primarily because this breed excels at bursts of speed over short distances. Appaloosas are also among the popular breeds used. They are known for their endurance and for being an intelligent breed that is sturdy, fast and sure footed. Paint horses and Arabians are also good for this event. A Paint is known for its friendly intelligence, for being athletic with strong with muscular hind legs. This breed is has a good weight distribution and a low center of gravity because of its small stature. Arabians have a long history of human contact that makes the very compatible for human handling. Their spirit is an advantage for this tough task.
Progress continues. Enhanced attributes are being developed by focused breeding programs. Improvements in training techniques have brought greater technical refinement. Men have entered the sort formerly restricted to women alone. Their participation has led to a surge in organizations established for the male fraternity. Preparation for barrel races reaches into youth programs that train young riders. These are offered by racing organizations and regional and local associations. This activity can be enjoyed by the entire family.
