Ride Pattern
- It is the contestant's responsibility to ensure the gate is closed before crossing the starting line. Crossing the starting line before the gate is closed will result in a 2-second penalty.
- The contestant may choose either the right or left barrel direction for barrel No. 1.
- Complete a 360-degree turn, then on to barrel No. 2, this time passing to the right with another 360-degree turn.
- At barrel No. 3, the same passage to the right and a 360-degree turn is accomplished.
- As soon as the turn is completed around barrel No. 3, the contestant sprints the horse to the start-finish line.
- A horse may start either on the right barrel or the left barrel and run the remainder of the pattern accordingly.
- Time is started as soon as the horse's nose crosses the start-finish line. The time is stopped when the course is run, and the horse's nose crosses the start-finish line.
- The start-finish line shall be the same 30-yard line and should be visible on the ground or by side markers 30 yards apart. If course is smaller than regulation, then the start and finish line should be 12 feet shorter than distance between barrel No. 1 and No. 2. Regardless of the length of this line, markers should be set on each end of the start-finish line, and riders must start and finish between markers or they will be considered off course.
- If the course is too large for the available space, then the pattern should be reduced 5 yards at a time until the pattern fits the arena. The distance from barrel No. 3 need not be reduced 5 yards at a time if there is sufficient room for the horse to stop. Each barrel should be set at least 15 feet from the arena wall or fence.
- Fifty-gallon barrels should be used. Riders should wear knee and leg protection at their own discretion.
Scoring Procedure
- Strictly a timed event. The fastest time is the winner, the second fastest time is second, etc.
- Any horse not following exact pattern will receive the lowest ribbon placing in final standing.
- A straight smooth forward pattern is required. Going by the center of a barrel on the wrong side as far as the shoulder point shall be considered off course. Each barrel center will be clearly marked with straight markers parallel to the starting line. Extra loops in the pattern other than those normally diagramed shall be considered off course.
Cause for 2-Second Penalty
- Horse led into the arena
- Crossing the start line before the gate is closed
- More than one circle taken after entering the arena, but prior to start of the run
- Losing hat while in the arena
- Touch or cross the start-finish line before the pattern is completed
- Failure to dismount prior to leaving the arena
- Each barrel tipped over
- Competing without a 4-H armband
Cause for No Time or Disqualification
- Failure to follow course
- Extra loops in the pattern other than those diagramed
- Going by a barrel on the wrong side as far as the point of the shoulder even if the horse is later corrected
- Starting or finishing run outside of markers on the start/finish line
- Touching a barrel with a hand
- Failure to enter the arena and cross the start line within 30 seconds after called.
- Ball caps; over and under ropes on saddle horn
- Use of bat, spurs, reins in front of cinch.