Barrel Racing Glossary
Arc- In this contex, arc refers to the flexible "bending" desired in barrel racing horses during turn around a barrel. The horse's body literally forms a slight curve from nose, through poll, shoulder, and loin as he shows free-flowing movemen in front and behind. The inside hochreaches up and across the outside hock in such a turn.
Average- Competitions with more than one go-round pay prize money for each round, plus money for best average, or total time. The winner of the average is the overall winner of the contest.
Bowing- Pronounced "bo-ing." This is a problem-rether than completing a proper turn around a barrel, the horse attempts to stride out too quick turn is sacrificed for a wide, gradual turn. The horse is also out of position for his next turn, and time is lost on the course. This can be caused by the rider rising out of the saddle too soon, before the turn is completed.
Checking- Refers to the process of "checking up" a horse to get him accustomed to a new bit, to help limber up, or to make him more responsive to a bit. The process involves tying rein or reins from head to tail or various parts of the saddle.
Dedication- Setting aside time for a particular purpose.
Direct Rein- Another common term for this is "plow reining." If a turn to the right is desired, the right-hand rein is used to pull the horse's head to the right. The opposite of direct reining is indirect reining.
Electronic Eye- The automatic timing device used at many professional rodeos. The eye is placed at the start/finish line, and time begins when the beam is crossed again at the conclusion of the run.
Entry Fee- The amount of money a contestant pays to enter a competition. Entry fees are pooled to form prize money at jackpots; additional "purse money" is added to the fees for a total prize money at rodeos.
Go-Round- Also referred to as "round." A competition will have at least one go-round is complete when every contestant has competed once.
Indirect Rein- Opposite of direct rein. While the direct rein controls the direction of the front end, the indirect rein controls and stabilizes the outside shoulder and hind legs.
Jackpot- A competition in which only entree fees are pooled for prize money. No purse money is added.
Pocket- The turning area between horse and barrel. This area varies among individual horses.
Points- Where rider looks in a course in order to ride horses in proper directions.
Purse Money- Also referred to as "added money." This is the money added by a rodeo committee. Entry fees plus purse money equal prize money at stake in a rodeo event.
Rate- In barrel racing, rate is maneuver in which the horse shortens or adjusts his stride in order to turn a barrel.
Shoulder Elevation- Upright position shoulder must remain in to maintain balance in a turn.
Slicing - This is a problem. The horse tries to turn a barrel too soon, and either hits the barrel or turns improperly, out of positions to run to the next barrel.
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