Rodeo Barrel Racing

Barrel racing is a competitive event in which a horse and rider run a cloverleaf pattern around three barrels. It is a timed event in which the fastest time wins. Though it is a sport more commonly competed in by women than men, depending on what governing body sanctions a barrel race the rider may be allowed to be a man. For example, professional rodeo barrel racing is usually a women's only sport, while other organizations (such as the American Quarter Horse Association and others) allow both women and men riders.

In barrel racing, the rider has the choice of turning either the right or left barrel first. By taking the right barrel first the horse will have one right-hand turn (the first barrel), and two left-hand turns (the second and third barrels). It is most common to take the right barrel first because most horses are naturally more athletic, and therefore faster, when working to their left.

This illustration shows shows how the barrel racing pattern looks when the right barrel is turned first.

Penalties

In barrel racing, there can be penalties. For example, if a barrel racer knocks over a barrel a five second penalty is usually assessed. If a barrel racer "breaks the pattern" (which means they don't run around all three barrels in the manner described by the rules), or if they cross back across the start/finish line before the pattern is complete, they will receive a no time.