How to Select a Barrel Racing Prospect

Barrel racing is a sport full of speed and excitement. A successful barrel horse must run fast, turn sharply and maneuver with speed and grace to outrun the rest of the field.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. Create a list of the qualities that you want in your barrel horse. A successful barrel horse normally comes from a combination racing or cutting horse lines, since those lines offer the speed to win and the maneuverability to turn the barrels quickly. He should have a short back, long underline, strong and straight legs and sturdy hocks to stand up to the rigors of training. Also note the qualities you want to avoid so that you can bypass any lines with those traits.

2. Review the rules of your local or national barrel racing associations to see if there are any restrictions or guidelines on the breed or gender of horse that you can compete with. The National Barrel Horse Association and the International Barrel Racing Association are two of the larger organizations that offer a wealth of knowledge on the sport of barrel racing and are good contact points to begin your quest for information (see Resources below).

3. Attend a number of local barrel races to see what type of horses are currently winning in the ring. A review of winners can offer you insight into which breeders you might like to contact regarding your new barrel prospect.

4. Contact farms and breeders that you are interested in to see their horses. Breeders typically sell young horses under the age of 3 as prospects, since they have not yet begun any official training, so your selections will most likely be young horses.

5. Discuss your wants for a barrel prospect with the breeders, who are the best ones to help you evaluate whether or not their stock will fit your barrel racing needs. Ask to see any titles or winnings that the horses they currently own have to gauge their barrel racing success, and ask to see any vet records for horses you are interested in.

6. Ask to see the horses in person and evaluate them hands on. The owner should allow you to halter and handle any prospects you’re interested in, along with seeing the horses move or be ridden if they are old enough. Be sure to check the horse untacked so that you can review her build and conformation.

7. Look over any contacts that the breeder has, and sign any necessary paperwork once you find a barrel racing prospect that you like. You will also want to review any registration papers and fees with the breeder at this time to make sure that you get all of the correct paperwork before hauling the horse home.

8. Load your new barrel prospect carefully in your trailer to haul him home. Be sure that you get him settled in well and evaluated by your veterinarian within 72 hours to check for any potential health issues. Contact the breeder and let her know of the results of the vet exam so that you can fully enjoy your new barrel racing prospect without worry or concern.

Tips & Warnings

• Research your lines carefully. Lineages of horses all carry certain quirks and traits, so be fully aware of any issues before purchasing your new horse.
• Do not buy a horse that appears ill or off in any way. Many sellers will not take back a sick horse, so be positive that the barrel prospect you buy is healthy and sound.

Resources

• National Barrel Horse Association
• International Barrel Racing Association