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Barrel Racing

Ladies saddle bronc riding and trick riding were once a part of the early days of rodeo and Wild West shows and were the only events women were allowed to participate in. As these two events began to wane, the enthusiastic Texans developed the cloverleaf barrel race. Three 50-gallon barrels were set up in a cloverleaf pattern and the fastest contestant around the course won.

Rules

• A contestant may go from the score line to either right or left barrel first, but must make two left turns and one right turn, or two right turns and one left turn. She will be disqualified for not following the pattern, or not being ready when name is called at score line. A 5-second penalty will be assessed for knocking over a barrel. Touching a barrel is permitted.
• Starting and finishing line and barrel positions are set permanently for the entire rodeo. Horse's nose will be flagged as it passes score line each way.
• A contestant must enter an entire rodeo, not by go-rounds. WRPA members acquire points toward the world's champion cowgirls rating on the basis of one point for each dollar won at a WPRA approved event.