WHAT IS GYMKHANA?

A gymkhana is what happens when a Rodeo meets a Horse Show. It is not quite a rodeo and it is not quite a horse show. But yes, it is held in an arena! Gymkhana is the action packed, precision sport of the equestrian world.

Speed and agility of the horse are tested. Horse and rider race against the clock following a course consisting of either barrels, poles, or both. Sometimes there might be a jump in the pattern.

"A good Gymkhana horse must have the speed of a racehorse, the turning quickness and agility of a cutting horse, and the control and responsiveness of the stock horse."

WHO CAN PARTICIPATE?

Anyone can ride in gymkhana events. To compete in gymkhana events, all you need is a western-type saddle and tack in good working order, and a sound, healthy horse. He does NOT have to be bathed and clipped like in horse shows. For the rider, all that is required is long pants, short sleeve or long sleeve shirt, and boots with a heel of 1/2" or greater. Safety helmets are encouraged but not required.

A Gymkhana consists of four timed (speed) events that test the skill of horse & rider teams. The Cloverleaf Barrels and Washington Poles events are ran at all gymkhanas. The remaining two patterns will be different at each Gymkhana. These patterns are all available on the website so you may practice them in advance to prepare yourself and your horse for the "big day."

There are five divisions that seperate riders: Leadline, Novice (participants of this division may not ride faster than a slow lope and must be novice riders), 12 & Under, 13 to 17, and 18 & Over. These divisions are OPEN to all riders, members and non-members both.

Cloverleaf Barrels: Riders choose to circle either the right or left barrel first, race to the opposite barrel and complete the course after circling the third barrel and racing down the center of the three barrels to stop the timer. Knocking over a barrel carries a five second penalty.

Washington Poles: horse and rider twice weave through a course of six poles spaced 21 feet apart, twice circling end poles before turning and racing to the finish line. The pattern must be followed exactly. A five-second penalty is added for each pole knocked down.