The Pole Barrel Race Association (PBRA) is the official sanctioning body for the sport of equine pole barrel racing.
Pole Barrel Racing is not just about time, but your ability to use subtle communication, proper form and to create a willing, competitive partnership with your teammate. In addition to testing your barrel racing and pole bending skills, it tests your horsemanship skills which can add or subtract up to 2.5 seconds to your time score.
A PBRA pole barrel race is a timed event using three identical barrels, six 6 ft. (1.8 meters) poles, and one 28 inch (71.12 cm) orange cone.
Western Tack is preferred for all events, but not required. We wish to encourage all horse owners to participate and have fun with their horse. Horses may race in a bit, bitless bridle, hackamore, halter or cavesson (with bit or snaffle). You can even ride bareback and bridless, if you’d like.
Competition Classes
There can be up to six different classes in a competition. A minimum of four competitors in any one class is required to award ribbons, trophies or prize money for that class.
Open Any amateur* of any age
Senior Any amateur 50 years and above
Adult Any amateur 19 – 49
Teen Any amateur 14 – 18
Youth Any Amateur 8 – 13
Professional Any adult who is “recognized” as an equine riding instructor/trainer, who’s primary occupation is as an instructor/trainer, who competes professionally in equine sports or is a sponsored competitor.
*An amateur is any person who enjoys equine activities and sports for the love of the experience and is not compensated as an equine instructor/trainer.
Download the Official Rules
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Become A Member
Equestrian clubs, groups or individuals may become members of the PBRA. Individual members are eligible to earn points towards regional and national awards by participating in officially-sanctioned races.