Archive for the ‘barrel racing’ Category

If you are going to take part in barrel racing it is crucial that the saddle you use fits correctly. A fancy saddle is not neccessary but a well fitting saddle is and could make the difference between winning and losing the race. Saddle selection is critical and includes consideration of the fit of the saddle for both horse and rider, the correct type of saddle and of course a price within your range. Do not be tempted to go for a cheap saddle. A good saddle will last for many years and is a good investment so don’t skimp now as you will surely regret it later.

Fitting the Saddle to the Horse

The fit of the saddle for the horse is perhaps the most important consideration. The fit must be good enough to prevent pressure points on the horse as these will cause pain and interfere with his free movement. The bars of the tree can interfere with movement if the saddle is not correctly fitted. There is a misconception that barrel saddles without bars can be fitted to any horse but this is untrue. An ill fitting saddle, even without bars can cause pain to the horse and also interfere with his normal movement is it sits too far back on the horse. It is essential then to ensure that the saddle fits correctly or behavioral and performance problems will always arise.

These are the points to consider when fitting the saddle. Ride the horse for a short time then inspect the area beneath the saddle. If there are dry areas this could indicate pressure points. If the saddle is ill fitting there may be circles of dryness on both sides although the rest of the back is wet from sweating.The saddle is pressing down in these dry areas and will lead to pressure points where the skin is damaged and sore.This problem will not be relieved by the use of more padding and means that the saddle does not fit correctly and should not be used.

Fitting the Saddle to the Rider

When choosing a new barrel saddle it is equally important to make sure it fits the rider as well as the horse. Different sizes and styles of saddle fit differently and may not suit all riders. If the saddle is ill fitting to the rider it will be uncomfortable and make it hard to keep balanced. In general barrel saddles have high cantles in the back and the leather of the jockeys and fenders is often rough to help in keeping the seat. The horn tends to be taller to improve the grip during rough maneuvers and the stirrups are often made to give a better angle to help the feet stay in place.

Purchasing a Barrel Saddle

There are some dealers who will let you test out the saddle for a short time before purchase so that you can be sure of a good fit. If the fit is not good you can either return the saddle for your money back or try a replacement. As barrel saddles, and indeed all saddles, are expensive it is vital that you purchase one that not only fits both horse and rider but is made of good quality materials to ensure it lasts well.

ok guys i am SICK AND TIRED of hearing about how that one rider was really hard on her horses mouth (the little chestnut freakin out) so guys if you could all do me a favor and stop commenting about it! SRY IT SUCKS BUT WMM SHUT DOWN ON ME AND NOW WHENEVER I OPEN IT IT FREEZES UP SRY //**I DO NOT OWN ANYTHING!!! CLIPS, SONG, NOTHING!!!!**// a collection of barrel racing accidents.

I decided to try something new, so I made a barrel racing video. Music: Life is Beautiful Sixx: AM

~*^*~READ~*^*~ THANK YOU EVERYONE WHO HAS WATCHED, COMMENTED, RATED, AND FAVORITED THIS VIDEO! The barrel racing support is amazing! Keep watch and sending this to all the fellow barrel racers you know! And i dont think i ever mentioned but my horse and i are also in this vid, its with clip that says passion, keep an eye out for us! thanks again for all the comments, and keep them coming! Okay so i made this video because I’m Sick and Tired of hearing people argue that barrel racing is a …

NFR Barrel Racing Round 10

Having the right equipment in sports is important not only for winning, but to remain safe. You wouldn’t play football without a helmet and proper padding or box without gloves and mouth guards. Barrel racing is no different. Having the proper equipment keeps you and your horse safe and performing to the best of your abilities.

Your barrel saddle is the most important piece of equipment. Without a proper fitting saddle, you and your horse can become sore. Make sure you use a saddle that fits your horse’s back and your seat correctly.

The next piece of equipment that can make or break a barrel run is the bit. Having the correct bit means your horse responds to your slightest move of the reins, the bit fits good and doesn’t pinch his mouth and allows him to make a great run. Most barrel racers keep an assortment of different types of bits in their barn. One bit is not going to be the best for every horse and some horses need different bits for different situations. Some barrel racers use one bit for training, one for exercising, one for competition and another for pleasure riding. This all depends on the horse and what kind of bit he responds to. Most barrel racers will go through many bits before finding the perfect bit for their horse.

Boots are a must-have accessory when running barrels. Your horse’s legs take a lot of stress running and turning hard. The right kind of boots can absorb some of that stress, reducing the wear on his legs. Front boots can also keep your horse from cutting himself with his rear legs when turning. Many barrel horses receive injuries to tendons and ligaments on their front legs from clipping themselves with the back hooves. Some do this while running, but most do it in the turns around the barrels. Rear boots protect the fetlocks from hitting the ground while setting and turning the barrel. Bell boots are not necessary for every horse, but are a good precaution. They protect the bulb of the front hooves from being stepped on or torn by the rear hooves.

Barrel racing reins are offered by many manufacturers and are available in many colors, but are all basically the same. They are short, round reins. Most have knots along each side for you to reach down and grab. These are the most popular barrel racing reins. Leather round reins can be used, but are more slippery than the knotted reins. Split reins aren’t used in barrel racing because one could get loose during a run and become very dangerous to a running horse.

Tie downs are used in barrel racing although some say it hinders the horse’s performance by not allowing him to use his natural balance. Others say their horses turn better with a loose tie down because they can use it to balance. This is strictly up to you and your horse. Some horses can’t be ridden without a tie down because they throw their heads around and don’t watch where they are going. Try running the pattern with and without a tie down to see how it affects your horse.

Whips are another piece of equipment used by many barrel racers. From bats and crops to an over and under, almost every barrel racer has used a whip at some point. An over and under, a rope that is attached to the saddle horn, is the most popular type of whip for barrel racers. It can be laid over the thigh when making a run, always within reach between barrels and on the run home. The best way to determine if your horse reacts positively to a whip is to video you making a run with and without using the whip. You may not notice while riding, but from a video you can see many horses actually slow down when they are whipped.

Equipment for barrel racers is available in many different styles, colors and material. Make your choice based on what works for you and your horse before buying the latest fad.

Looking for more great barrel racing articles? Just wheel on over to our equine network and you will enjoy our great article and forum resources.