Barrel racing is undoubtedly the most popular of all exhilarating equine speed events, known by various names such as gymkhana, pattern racing, timed events, gaming.
Barrel racing is enjoyed by people of all ages, from 4-H fairs and high school equestrian meets to exclusive barrel competitions and rodeos. The most well-known barrel racing pattern involves three barrels set up in a triangle shape. Riders start at the starting line, proceed towards the right barrel, make a right turn, move to the second barrel, make a left turn, then reach the third barrel and make another left turn before racing back across the finish line. Alternatively, riders can choose to run the pattern in the opposite direction, making a left turn followed by two right turns. The name of this event can vary depending on the organization and region, and it may be referred to as Cloverleaf Barrels, Texas Barrels, or simply Barrels.
The National Barrel Horse Association (NBHA) is globally recognized as the largest organization dedicated to barrel racing, boasting a membership exceeding 23,000 individuals within the United States. It is worth noting that the NBHA’s influence extends to 12 other nations, inclusive of Canada, Italy, France, Panama, and Brazil. Notably, the NBHA has impressively disbursed over 12 billion dollars in prize money thus far. By employing a 4-D divisional time bracket system, the NBHA welcomes equestrians of all skill levels, ranging from novices to professionals. Furthermore, the NBHA offers separate divisions catering to youth aged 18 and under, seniors aged 50 and over, and open competitions. Participants within the NBHA partake in exhilarating tournaments at district, state, national, and even world championship levels.
The organization known as the Women’s Professional Rodeo Association (WPRA) is responsible for endorsing barrel racing events in rodeos specifically for female riders of different age groups. WPRA, established in 1948, currently has over 2,500 members and provides substantial prize money.
The triangular pattern is the most common in barrel racing, but it is not the exclusive event. Western Horsemen of Oregon also provides a distinct event called Cloverleaf Barrels, where four barrels are arranged in a square. Horses are required to pass through a marked circle in the middle of the pattern before rounding each barrel. They then cross a line on the opposite side and are required to back up 10 feet to reach the finish line.
The Pony of the Americas (POA) Club’s official handbook features the famous Cloverleaf Barrels as well as outlining two additional events called Straight Barrels and Figure 8 Barrels, which involve three barrels arranged in a row. These events have distinct patterns that differ from each other. Another event referred to as Speed Barrels, which is popular among certain riding groups, also includes three barrels positioned in a row; however, its pattern is different from both the POA events.
Lastly, there are single barrel events available. One example is the POA Texas Rollback, where a barrel is placed 100 feet away from the start/finish line. Riders approach the barrel from the right side, make a 180 degree turn to the right behind the barrel, and exit from the other side. Alternatively, they can also choose to run it in the opposite direction. Another single barrel event is the Barrel Dash, where riders ride around the barrel in either direction and race back over the finish line. This class is particularly suitable for young riders.
Different associations have slight variations in their requirements, although 55-gallon barrels are generally accepted. Metal or weighted plastic barrels are allowed by most associations. In order to ensure safety, some associations mandate the addition of a bicycle tire around the rim of metal barrels. Rodeo barrels are commonly wrapped in a canvas sleeve embellished with advertisements, while other barrels may be painted in vibrant colors such as red, white, and blue. Logos can also be included.
Any Western saddle and bridle is permitted as long as it meets safety and humane standards. It is preferable for saddles to be lightweight with minimal or no silver embellishments. Barrel racing saddles typically have forward-slanted stirrups, a horn that slants forward, and a deep seat. Headstalls can be made of leather, nylon, or other materials. Snaffles, curbs, gag bits, and mechanical hackamores are all considered acceptable. Looped reins, typically used in roping, are commonly used and may be required for safety in youth organizations. Some also necessitate a throatlatch to ensure the bridle is secure. Breast collars, cavessons, tie downs, and protective boots are frequently used.
Riders commonly dress in jeans and a long-sleeved Western shirt. It is necessary to wear boots and either a Western hat or helmet. To prevent their cowboy hat from falling off during a run, some barrel racers use a stampede string, but this is not allowed in NBHA and results in a $25 penalty. Although optional, shin guards are frequently worn. Riders frequently match their attire with their saddle pad, leg wraps, and other tack. Women traditionally opt for bright colors and also enjoy fringe and sparkly fabric.
What Is The Cloverleaf Barrel Racing Pattern?
The pattern for barrel racing is called the cloverleaf pattern, which requires the barrel racer to guide their horse around three 55-gallon barrels in a galloping motion.
The reason why the pattern for barrel racing is called the cloverleaf is because it is shaped like a triangle or a cloverleaf.
If someone uses the term “barrel pattern” without specifying cloverleaf or straight, they are most likely talking about the more common cloverleaf barrel pattern, although there is also a straight barrel racing pattern in which three 55-gallon barrels are arranged in a straight line instead of a cloverleaf design.
When performing the cloverleaf barrel racing pattern, the rider can either choose to start by turning the right barrel first, creating a right-handed pattern, or start by turning the left barrel first, creating a left-handed pattern.
The Right-Handed Barrel Racing Pattern
The right-handed barrel pattern is most commonly chosen by barrel racers because horses tend to be more athletic when turning to their left. By beginning with the right barrel, the horse will execute one turn to the right (the first barrel) and two turns to the left (the second and third barrels).
The Left-Handed Barrel Racing Pattern
The left-handed barrel pattern involves turning the left barrel first, which is less commonly performed than the right-hand pattern, yet it is still within the legal bounds and not exceptionally uncommon.
Breaking The Barrel Racing Pattern
If a barrel racer fails to go around the barrels in the correct sequence, it is referred to as “breaking the pattern,” which leads to a no time being recorded.
Knocking Over A Barrel
If a barrel racer makes contact with a barrel while running, as long as the barrel remains upright, no penalty will be incurred.
If a barrel racer knocks down a barrel during their run, they will receive a penalty of 5 seconds for each knocked-down barrel.
