The Horse

The sound is unmistakable; what sounds like thunder or a freight train is the sound of hooves from one of the most magnificent creatures on earth.  Horses have been running for more than 50 million years.  Once the human and horse became acquainted they became more powerful when they were linked together.

Horses were domesticated over 6,000 years ago and over time more than 200 breeds have been created.  From the beauty of the Arabian, the strength of the Clydesdale and the all around ability of the Quarter Horse.  We've fallen in love with these beautiful creatures.

Barrel Racing is one sport that has shown the athletic ability of the horse, this sport was created in 1948 by the Girls Rodeo Association, now called the Women's Professional Rodeo Association and started in the great state of Texas.  Barrel Racing was created so women would have a sport to compete in at the professional rodeos.

Today Barrel Racing is not only a rodeo sport but also a sport amongst itself in jackpot format and is widely popular in such events as NBHA World, BBR World Finals and numerous Futurity events.  In this sport, you can see the versatility and speed of the horse, running short distances, making stops, turns, pivots, and then speeds to the next spot to repeat his moves again.

If you have never watched a Barrel Race, please take some time to find one in your area so you can see what an athletic sport it is and watch as horse and rider become one to compete for the fastest time.