Barrel racing is the most popular of the speed events for
horses. Contestants vie for the fastest time running a cloverleaf
pattern around three barrels arranged in a triangular formation. Horse
and rider are allowed a running start with time beginning and ending at
a visible finish line. Knocking over a barrel causes a 5 second penalty
and breaking the pattern is a disqualification.
In this event the horse and rider run a linear pattern through
six equally spaced poles placed 21 feet apart. This event is more
difficult for the horse, and it is required to change leads as it
weaves through the poles. As in Barrel Racing, a 5 second penalty is
applied for knocking over a pole and a disqualification for breaking
the pattern. A running start is allowed from a visible line.
This event is set on a simple course of two barrels and a pole.
Atop each barrel is a bucket filled with pellets in which a flag
stands. The rider must bring the horse as close to the barrel as
possible, pick up the flag from the first bucket then deposit it in the
second bucket. Penalties are assessed if the bucket, barrel, or pole
are knocked over.
