Barrel racing is the biggest event for women on the rodeo circuit. The event involves riding around three barrels set in a diamond pattern in a field. Riders must direct their mounts through a clover leaf pattern. Barrel races take less than 17 seconds to complete. Competitors are often so close there are hundredths of a second separating one from another.

From humble beginning in the 1930s, this sport has continued to grow to become a highly popular part of rodeos. It is believed that the competitive sport was first introduced in Texas. Early beginnings have been traced to the 1932 holding of the Stamford a weekend rodeo, the Texas Cowboy Reunion. In this year it held an event for girls where horsemanship was demonstrated by riding in a figure eight configuration around barrels.

A few years later, the configuration was changed to a clover leaf pattern in 1935. Thereafter, this layout became the universal design used over time. During the early period, use of the initial patterns alternated. Finally, the tougher challenge of the flower design won out in competitive usage. Since 1949 the contest has been judged on the basis of the finishing time.

The individual and the steed must race at quickly in snug turns without coming in contact with the arranged obstacles. The need for strength, agility, and speed is a test for the horse. The combined efforts of the horse and rider are at their best demonstrations of a magical harmony. This develops over a period of time as competitors become more seasoned. The exacting demands of the sport have been a decisive factor in its growing appeal.

The first obstacle has been described as the money barrel by competitors. This is because it sets the tone for the rest of the run. The sport has seen some major progress over the years. This is exemplified by the mounts, which were earlier discards found unsuitable for other riding trials. Now skilled trainers have prepared them for this specialized use.

Expert breeders are also breeding horse strains with an enhanced ability to perform in these competitions. The optimal steed must combine speed with control. It must be capable of making sharp quickly.

Specific temperamental traits and physical characteristics in a mount make them better competitors. In the end, it is the harmonious relationship between the rider and steed that ultimately leads to successful executions. At the moment the quarter horse dominates the equine part of this relationship primarily because this breed excels at bursts of speed over short distances. Appaloosas are also among the popular breeds used. They are known for their endurance and for being an intelligent breed that is sturdy, fast and sure footed. Paint horses and Arabians are also good for this event. A Paint is known for its friendly intelligence, for being athletic with strong with muscular hind legs. This breed is has a good weight distribution and a low center of gravity because of its small stature. Arabians have a long history of human contact that makes the very compatible for human handling. Their spirit is an advantage for this tough task.

Evolution in this challenging event has continued as breeding programs develop improved strains and training methods have improved. Once confined to women, males have recently begun to participate seriously in barrel races. Fraternities have sprung up with a focus on male racers. Training for youngsters is offered by a number of regional and local riding institutions and racing associations. The whole family can become involved in this activity.