Tack and Equipment
There are several different types of bits that are used in barrel racing, there are no specific bits required for barrel racing, though there are bits that are more common to barrel racers. The type of bit used is determined by an individual horse's needs. Bits with longer shanks cause the horse to stop quicker than normal, while bits with shorter shanks are used for more lateral work. Bits with twisted mouthpieces are used for horses that a rider has to put a lot of effort in to turn. Chain mouthpieces can be used for shoulder control, rating, and help with the turn, while solid mouthpieces can be used on horses with too much turn. Curb chains, nosebands,and tie-downs can be used in conjunction with the bit. Nosebands come in rope, wire, or chain and are used by the rider to exert more control over the horse. Curb chains are primarily used for rate. Tie-downs give the horse a sense of security when stopping and turning.
Typically, reins used in barrel racing competitions are fully intact. This allows the rider the ability to quickly recover the reins if dropped, unlike split reins. Martha Josey Knot reins are popular within the barrel racing community because of the knots in the rope that allow for a better grip. The reins are also adjustable, making them an ideal choice for competitors of all sizes. Leather reins are also widely used. These can be flat or braided, but both varieties have a tendency to become slippery when wet. Wax reins are also available, but not as widely used due to the fact that they become sticky.
A lightweight saddle with a high horn and cantle is ideal. Forward strung stirrups also help to keep the rider's feet in proper position. Typically, riders choose a saddle that is up to a full size smaller than he or she would normally use. Most importantly, it must fit the rider's horse properly. Saddle pads and cinches are chosen based on the horse's size.
Costs for the purchase of a high caliber barrel racing horse can currently reach well over the $100,000 mark depending on the ability and individuality of the horse. While breeding plays a huge role in the sale price of a horse, athletic ability, intelligence, drive, and willingness to please also “make or break” the sale of a horse.
Read more about this topic: Barrel Racing
Famous quotes containing the words tack and, tack and/or equipment:
“For hours, in fall days, I watched the ducks cunningly tack and veer and hold the middle of the pond, far from the sportsman;... but what beside safety they got by sailing in the middle of Walden I do not know, unless they love its water for the same reason that I do.”
—Henry David Thoreau (1817–1862)
“For hours, in fall days, I watched the ducks cunningly tack and veer and hold the middle of the pond, far from the sportsman;... but what beside safety they got by sailing in the middle of Walden I do not know, unless they love its water for the same reason that I do.”
—Henry David Thoreau (1817–1862)
“Why not draft executive and management brains to prepare and produce the equipment the $21-a-month draftee must use and forget this dollar-a-year tommyrot? Would we send an army into the field under a dollar-a-year General who had to be home Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays?”
—Lyndon Baines Johnson (1908–1973)