Im having trouble with my horse!! (barrel racers only)?

Question

So...I just purchased a 5 year old paint and he wasnt started on barrels but he had the speed and turning and bones for barrel racing...He can do the pattern now but how can I get him to pick up the speed..He slows down after the second barrel and does a wierd lope thing??

Answer 1

he's just being stubborn. DO NOT LET HIM CONTROL YOU. back him up and go redo the pattern. all you can do is keep riding him. I ride my horse everyday and he gets faster and faster. try using a whip, usual kissing noises, and bumper spurs. if you do the right exercises, stretch him, ride him often, and use different methods of adding speed (whips, kicking, spurs, noises) he should be fine

if not... get a new horse?

Answer 2

I have faced the same problem but right before the 3rd barrel. I then found out that it was a curage issue where my horse wasnt sure what to do really. I found it helpful to encurage him and push him on and let him know it was okay to go faster. It was really simple for us hope this helps you.

Answer 3

Is he coming out of that barrel on the proper lead !!!

Answer 4

Make sure he is on the correct lead around each barrel and Like the 1st answer...just encourage him to keep moving maybe keep him a jog until he is sure of himself and make sure he is on that lead LOL!