The Beginner Guide to Barrel Racing

Intro

So you want to jump into the world of barrel racing! Whether you’re dreaming of racing under the bright lights of a rodeo or simply looking to improve your riding skills and enter your first competition, this complete barrel racing guide will help you every step of the way. 

Horses, speed, competition and adrenaline; all things barrel racing has to offer us. Barrel racing is a times event with nothing but you, your horse and three barrels to turn(if only it was that easy). The race is a clover leaf pattern, starting with either a left or right turn depending on your preference. The clock is the only judge as the fastest times win. Let’s dive in and unlock your potential in the world of barrel racing.

First, You Need a Horse

Having the right horse is key in your barrel racing adventure. Look for a horse that has a good brain and ideally one with some barrel racing experience. It’s also important to keep in mind a horse needs to match your riding abilities. I know we all want to be a NFR or pro rider ASAP, but we also must take the necessary steps to get there. Each horse is a stepping stone and we have to take into account our abilities as a rider while we shop for our equine partner!

You can also train your own horse.These days, horse prices are HIGH. Getting one trained already can be pricey but for starting off i would still recommend getting a well-trained and seasoned horse that will run the speed you are comfortable with. If you are interested in training your own, I suggest articles like this

 Having a trainer or mentor in your corner to help you is a good idea, esecially if you are starting out. Always take the horse for a ride before you buy to see how you two mesh together. Be patient and find a horse that just feels right for you.

The next thing to keep in mind when buying a horse is a vet exam. Horses, just like any other big purchase should have a pre inspection so you know the health the horse. Especially barrel racing is extremely physically taxing on these horses. Having a vet, bonus points if they are a performance vet go over and conduct a pre purchase. This is something we discuss in further detail in this (blog post Here coming soon)

Tack and Equipment

Having the right tack will make all the difference in your riding and your horses comfort. We have a full guide to western tack here. First, you’ll need a barrel saddle that fits you and the horse well. The saddle is designed to have a high cantel and pommel to give you security during tight turns and hard take offs.

Good quality leather is a longterm investment you cant go wrong in making. This includes a sleek leather bridle(or 10) that comes in a browband style or one ear.

Next is an important choice of a bit(s) which we have a few of our favourite bits to choose from. Having spares of everything with you will be very useful when something breaks. With horses, something always will break, it’s only a matter of time till you need an extra of something. 

Protect your horse’s legs with splint boots to prevent injuries during those high-speed runs. We have a full blog post talking about splint boots and leg wraps here. Of course, prioritize your own safety with a helmet, comfy footwear, and show attire that meets the event requirements.

Investing in quality equipment shows your commitment and the motto is “look good, feel good”. Your horse are ready to race with confidence! To get a full guide of tack and equipment click here.

Video Playlist for Tack & Equipment – check it out below

How Barrel Racing Events Work

Barrel racing is a timed event where you and your horse run a cloverleaf pattern around three barrels. As soon as you cross the start or timer line, the clock starts ticking. These events are usually buzzing with high energy and anticipation (no need to be anxious though! How to handle anxiety post coming soon).

Competitors often need to register ahead of time, so make sure you understand the event’s specific rules and regulations. You can usually enter late but there will typically be a late fee attached to it and we like to avoid extra costs by all means possible.

NBHA/Division Format:

In order to give every riders a chance to make money. NBHA incorporated divisions into their open races. The divisions allow everyone, not just the top times to earn some cash and prizes. These open races can also have specific classes such as rookie, youth, senior, Futurity and Derby. 

How Divisions Work:

• 1D is the fastest times of that go/class
• 2D is half a second slower then the fastest time
• 3D is 1 full second
• 4D is 2 seconds off the fastest time.

Example: winning time was 15.0. The 1D winner is 15.0, the 2D is above 15.5 the 3D is above 16.0 and the 4D is anyone slower than 17.0

However, some races are in 5D format. In this case all 5 divisions are half second split.

Example:

• 1D is 15.0

• 2D is 15.5
• 3D is 16.0
• 4D is 16.5
• 5D is 17.0

Anyone can enter the open race. It is open for youth, rookies, seniors, futurity horses etc. The open class usually has the biggest number of entries and the most money added.

Futurity and Derby

Want to learn more about younger horses? Futurity races are for horses aged 4 and 5-year-olds. The class is to give these promising athletes and the trainers a chance to showcase their talent. The credential of a futurity horse in simple is it is a horses first year in competition, and they have to be either 4 or 5. Some events are strict on only being a 4 year old like many BFA shows.(Barrel Futurities of America)

Derby races, on the other hand, are for horses who are no longer a futurity horse. The age group are between 5 and 7 years old, providing them a chance to keep entering age-specific classes. These distinctions help fair competition by matching horses of similar age.Embrace these opportunities to nurture and highlight your horse’s unique abilities from a young age, and enjoy watching them grow into nice barrel horses (I personally love training futurity horses.)

This is a 4 year old futurity horses I trained and ran. From unstarted to becoming a really cool and competitive barrel pony!

Rodeo Barrel Racing

Rodeo barrel racing is an exhilarating experience that offers its own set of unique challenges. For one, rodeo only pays the top times. So if you are running a 3D time, your chances of making any money are a lot less at a rodeo. No one can stop you from entering lower level rodeos, but be mindful that the entry fee is usually a lot more for only one run.

The energy at rodeos can be electrifying, often presenting a high-stakes environment that can be both thrilling and daunting. You may find yourself competing against seasoned riders, but remember, this is about your personal journey. Focus on your growth and celebrate your achievements.

Crowd noise and distractions are everywhere at a rodeo, so seasoning your horse will take time if they are inexperienced. Approach each challenge with a positive mindset, knowing that every step forward is a step closer to your barrel racing goals.

Barrel Racing Terms and Lingo

The world of barrel racing means getting comfortable with its different terms and lingo. Here are some to get the barrel racing beginners started:

• **The Pattern**: The standard pattern in barrel racing, consisting of a cloverleaf path around three barrels. You can make one left and two rights or you start with a right and make two lefts
• **Knock**: When a barrel is tipped over during a run, leading to a 5 second time penalty(in rodeo) or a no time(in open races)
• **Clean Run**: Completing the pattern without knocking any barrels over.
• **First Go**: The first run/class in a multi-round race.
• **Exhibitions**: This is before the show start time. Exhibitions are a paid time slot you get in the arena with the barrels up.  Learn more about exbos here They are your time to practice the pattern before you run against the clock. BUT, expos are time limited, usually 60 seconds is your MAX. Please respect everyones time and ride within your time limit, it helps the show run smoother and everyone is happy. YAY. 
• **Pocket**:The pocket is the area we give our hores the aceptable room to make the turn smoothly. Our pocket is going to change based on the horse, some big horses need more room for the turn and smaller horses might need less space. It is typically the area going into the turn and behind it that we want to give room so we can leave the barrel nice and straight an close to the barrel.
• **Rate**: This is the spot on the pattern wher you start to slow your horse down for the turn. It differs per horse but it is typically around 10 feet before the turn. It is important to look ahead of the rate spot, we don’t want us or our horses to anticipate the turn and hit it.
• **Home**: AKA the timer line. Hustle HOMEEEEE is the phrase. or just “go on!!” “Hustle!!!!”and whatever else comes out of your mouth in the heat of the moment. But make sure to run all the way home. In this timed event, we don’t want to slow down before the timer line.

Learning these terms will help you feel more confident to the barrel racing community. Enjoy the process or learning and have fun soaking in all the new knowledge!

Penalties

There are a few ways to earn a disqualification in barrel racing.

• A Down Barrel. This is when a barrel is hit by you or your horse and falls over. There are some cases you manage to reach down and grab the barrel before it falls, that is still a clean run.. Beware, some riders loose their balance and end up falling off their horses trying this move!
•  Not following the Proper Barrel Pattern. AKA going off pattern.This is an automatic Disqualification. Also, if you turn the barrel inside out, meaning the horse came out of the barrel the same side they came into it is off pattern.
• Final Call. When your name is called, you have a specific amout of time you MUST enter the arena, its usually 60 seconds. If you fail to get in the arena, due to horse alley issues, or you just miss your run due to a longer than expected warm up or chats with friends(guilty). Whatever the cause is, make sure you know the time allowed before you get “last call” and officially miss your run.

Train Your Horse for Barrel Racing 

Finally the good part – training and riding your horse! Working with your horse for barrel racing is a rewarding journey filled with patience and progress for you and your horse. Begin with solid groundwork(post coming soon) to build trust and establish clear communication. Once your foundation is solid, slowly introduce the pattern, focusing on being smooth and consistent before adding any speed.

Keep your horse’s fitness in mind by incorporating exercises that focus on strength and stamina. Consistency is key, so make riding a regular part of your routine. Celebrate each milestone, no matter how small, and watch your horse blossom into a confident horse and you a confident rider!

Click here for the free training barrel horses playlist

Entering Your First Barrel Racing Competition

Entering your first barrel racing competition is a milestone worth celebrating! Once you get there and are all settled in, start by doing exhibitions that will improve your chances of making good runs.

Review the event’s rules and format well in advance; understanding the details will help you avoid any unfortunate surprises on race day. Arrive at the facility early, giving both you and your horse enough time to settle into the new environment and get your open riding or expos in.

Keep yourself and your horse well-hydrated, and opt for a light, energizing meal before you compete. Equip yourself with a checklist to ensure you have all your necessary tack and gear, reducing last-minute stress.  Before your run, be sure to warm up your horse properly, and allow your horse to loosen up to avoid injury.

It’s okay to feel a mix of nerves and excitement—embrace it! Take a moment to breathe deeply and visualize what you want to happen. Connect with fellow racers; the barrel racing community is incredibly supportive, especially for beginners. Focus on your personal goals rather than comparing yourself to others, and remind yourself of the hard work and dedication that brought you here.

This is your moment to shine and experience the privilege of barrel racing. Enjoy every second, and remember, every champion started where you are now!

Overcoming Performance Anxiety and Building Confidence

Feeling those pre-race jitters is completely natural! Channelling that energy positively can make a world of difference. Start by visualizing a smooth, successful run, letting those positive images build your confidence. Practice deep breathing techniques to keep your nerves in check. A calm mind will help you perform at your best. Remember, every rider’s journey is unique, so focus on your own progress and set realistic goals that celebrate your personal achievements. Embrace each experience as a step forward, knowing your path is all yours to own and conquer. 

Developing a Growth Mindset and Bond with Your Horse

Developing a growth mindset and a deep bond with your horse is essential for success and most importantly, enjoyment in barrel racing. Remember, every challenge is an opportunity to grow and strengthen yourself and your partnership with your horse. Here are some loving and optimistic tips to help you on this journey:

**Embrace Mistakes with Love**: Understand that both you and your horse are learning. Mistakes are natural and part of the process. Approach them with patience and see them as valuable lessons rather than setbacks. Each setback is actually a stepping stone forward toward improvement.

**Celebrate Small Wins**: Every bit of progress is worth celebrating. Whether it’s a better turn around barrel one or a more present run, acknowledge and celebrate these moments. Positive reinforcement not only motivates you but also boosts both you and your horse’s confidence.

**Quality Time Together**: Building a strong bond based on mutual respect goes beyond training. Spend quality time with your horse outside of practice. Grooming, hand-walking, and just being together can deepen your relationship and build mutual trust and respect. Also, horses are just amazing and healing to hang out with.

**Stay Curious and Open**: Keep learning and stay curious. Seek advice from experienced riders, watch training videos, and read books on barrel racing and horse behaviour.(hint* follow We Can Hustle) This continuous learning will keep you inspired and bring fresh ideas to your training routine.

**Positive Mindset Practices**: Use visualization and affirmations to cultivate a positive mindset. Visualize successful runs and remind yourself of your strengths and past achievements. A positive mindset will keep you motivated and moving forward through ups and downs.

By nurturing a growth mindset and prioritizing your bond with your horse, you’ll create a connected partnership. This connection is the foundation of your success in your barrel racing journey.

We hope this guide was helpful. Be sure to follow us for more insight into barrel racing and your own personal growth journey.