Barrel racing is a fast-paced and thrilling equestrian sport that has been gaining popularity in the United States for decades. It involves a horse and rider navigating a cloverleaf pattern around barrels in an arena, with the fastest time winning the competition. Barrel racers must be extremely skilled in order to be successful, and many professional barrel racers have developed a loyal following. So how many barrel racers are there in America?
History of Barrel Racing
The sport of barrel racing is believed to have originated in the American rodeo circuit in the early 1920s. It was initially developed as a timed event where a horse and rider would race around three barrels in a cloverleaf pattern. The first official barrel racing event was held at the National Finals Rodeo in 1959 and has been a popular sport ever since.
In more recent years, barrel racing has become more accessible to the general public due to the introduction of barrel racing associations such as the National Barrel Horse Association (NBHA) and Women’s Professional Rodeo Association (WPRA). These associations have helped to promote the sport and create a community of barrel racers across the United States.
How Many Barrel Racers are There in America?
According to a survey conducted by the National Barrel Horse Association (NBHA), there are approximately 8,000 active barrel racers in the United States. This number does not include amateur or recreational barrel racers, which could potentially double the number.
Barrel Racers by Region
When it comes to the number of barrel racers in each region of the United States, the NBHA survey found that the Midwest has the most with 3,000 active barrel racers, followed by the West with 2,500, the South with 1,500 and the Northeast with 1,000.
Professionals vs. Amateurs
The NBHA survey also revealed that there are approximately 1,500 professional barrel racers in the United States. Professional barrel racers are those who compete in sanctioned barrel racing competitions and have achieved a certain level of success.
Amateur barrel racers, on the other hand, are those who compete in non-sanctioned events or just practice the sport recreationally. It is estimated that there are approximately 6,500 amateur barrel racers in the United States.
Barrel Racing in Other Countries
Barrel racing is a popular sport in other countries as well, including Canada, Australia, and the United Kingdom. According to the Canadian Barrel Racing Association, there are approximately 4,000 barrel racers in Canada. In Australia, there are estimated to be between 1,000 and 2,000 barrel racers, and in the United Kingdom there are approximately 500 barrel racers.
Barrel Racing Competitions
Barrel racing competitions are held all over the United States and are organized by various associations and organizations. The National Barrel Horse Association (NBHA) hosts the largest barrel racing competitions and offers a variety of classes for all levels of barrel racers.
The Women’s Professional Rodeo Association (WPRA) is another organization that hosts barrel racing competitions and offers a world championship event. Other organizations that host barrel racing competitions include the National High School Rodeo Association (NHSRA) and the National Junior High Rodeo Association (NJHRA).
Barrel Racing Trends
In recent years, barrel racing has become increasingly popular among younger riders. According to the NBHA survey, the average age of a barrel racer is 33, but there are many younger riders who are getting involved.
This trend is likely due to the increased accessibility of barrel racing events, as well as the rise of social media platforms that have helped to promote the sport. In addition, many professional barrel racers have become role models for younger riders and have inspired them to become involved in the sport.
Barrel Racing Equipment
In order to be successful in barrel racing, riders need to have the right equipment. This includes a saddle, bridle, chaps, and spurs. Riders also need to have the correct type of horse for the sport, as well as access to the proper training and instruction.
Conclusion
Barrel racing is an exciting equestrian sport that is gaining popularity in the United States. According to the NBHA survey, there are approximately 8,000 active barrel racers in the United States, and the number could potentially double when amateur and recreational barrel racers are included.
The number of barrel racers in other countries is also increasing, and the sport is becoming increasingly popular among younger riders. In order to be successful in barrel racing, riders need the right equipment and access to the proper training and instruction.
Barrel racing is an exciting and growing sport that will continue to offer thrilling competitions for years to come.