Contestants vie for the fastest time in running a triangular, cloverleaf pattern around three barrels. That is if the Cowboy can stay in the saddle. The horses and rider are allowed a running start and time begins and ends upon crossing a visible starting line. A 5-second penalty is assessed for knocking over a barrel. The pattern can be started either from the left or right, and contestants that go off the prescribed course are disqualified. Horses are rally inelegant creatures, stubborn too!
Cowboy Chuck riding Alazar
Video used with permission CowboyFrank.net