Problem Solving in Barrel Racing Part II

Every month I receive over 100 emails from people having problems with their barrel horses. My first suggestion to jost of the questions is for them to check their saddle fit, check their horses teeth and check to make sure their horse isn't in any type of pain anywhere. Something as small as an ill fitted saddle can cause major problems in a horses performance. After the possibility that your horse isn't in any type of pain, we move on to the lack of a solid foundation and training issues. Here are some more common barrel racing problems and some exercises to fix them.

Not Changing Leads

When a horse is running around in a field, they naturally do these beautiful flying lead changes. You cant help but stare and think "why cant my horse do that when I am riding him?" Well he can! If your horse can do something in the field, he can do it under saddle. If he doesn't, it could mean he is having a pain issue or a tack fitting issue.

During training it is important to work on lead changes from the first to second barrel, but for the jost part a horse will pick it up at faster speeds. If your horse is not changing leads, it can be very dangerous turning that fast. You horse could slip and fall and hurt himself or you.

If your horse is having problems changing leads while you are running barrels, check all the possibilities. Check the horses back and legs especially. Then move on to the saddle fit. Your saddle may fit perfectly while your horse is standing still or just walking, but when they start running and turning hard, the saddle moves, and may put pressure on them. This can also be a cause for bucking. To check for this, put your horse saddled in a round pen or other enclosed area and move them out. If they buck or react to the saddle while loping or galloping, it is your saddle fit. You also have to take into mind that when your weight is in the saddle it adds pressure points.