Barrel racing question??

Question

my horse is a 9 year old paint horse who has never barrel raced before. I have run him in the pasture and he shows plenty of speed. I want to teach him barrels and possibly compete. Maybe even do poles too. He can do lead changes awsomely! haha...just need tips on how to go about teachin him. thanks

Answer 1

Best way to go it go ya self this way you horse knows wat u want and you dont have to learn how to ride him around it. like above said go slow walk and walk and more walk then trot but when troting sit trot around the barrels it helps with balance and also with the changes change your diagonals. then the canter (nice pace) then in the change back to trot to get him on the right leg and canter again this can take up to a year or so just to get him to learn. It may seem alot but its worth it.

then start to pace it out..

Hope this helps.. It worked for me..

Answer 2

Well, it is always safest to get a professional trainer involved.  Especially if you want to go far with this.  Even if you have to pay a trainer to help you, it will be worth it.

If you would rather train him yourself. 1. Be careful 2. Take your time, and do not rush the training.

I would start out with practicing walking your horse around barrrels and other similar objects to ensure that he will not spook.  Once he's comfortable with walking, then try trotting around, then cantering, etc.  Next, try walking him through the course you will take around the barrels.  As he gains comfort, begin increasing his speed.  This is a gradual process - do not rush it!  As the horse becomes more comfortable and understanding with the concept, then you can try making him gallop tighter circles around the barrels.

Also, of course, a few extra workouts to get him into shape will always help.

Good luck!