In collegiate and professional ranks, it is usually a women's event, though both sexes compete at amateur and youth levels.

It requires a combination of the horse's athletic ability and the horsemanship skills of a rider in order to safely and successfully maneuver the horse around three barrels placed in a triangle pattern within a large arena.

Even so, the sport of barrel racing is played by large numbers of both boys and girls, especially in rural and remote areas.

Today, barrel racing is a part of most rodeos, and is also included at gymkhana or O-Mok-See events, which are generally amateur competitions open to riders of all ages and abilities.

In amateur competition other related speed events (such as keyhole race and pole bending) may be added.

The main purpose of barrel racing is to run a set pattern as fast as possible.

The timer begins when horse and rider cross the starting line, and ends when the barrel pattern has been successfully executed and horse and rider cross the finish line.

Success depends on several factors, most commonly the horse's physical and mental condition, the rider's horsemanship abilities, and the type of ground or footing (the quality, depth, content, etc.

Modern barrel racing horses not only need to be fast, but also strong, agile, and intelligent.

Running past a barrel and off the pattern will result in a "no time" score and disqualification.

At professional rodeos, it is required that the arena be harrowed after twelve contestants have run.

Barrels are required to be fifty-five gallons, metal, enclosed at both ends, and of at least two colors.

Competitors are required to abide by this dress code beginning one hour before the competition.

Completing the third and final turn, horse and rider race for "home", the line that stops the timer and ends the run.

The athleticism required for this maneuvering comes from optimum physical fitness of the rider and especially the horse.

While breeding is one major influence in the sale price of a horse, athletic ability, intelligence and drive, as well as the overall state of the economy, all play a role.

Typically, riders choose a saddle that is up to a full size smaller than he or she would normally use.

[13] The ApHC rules state that racing competition is traditional to the Nez Perce Native American people.

Commonly, protective boots are worn on the horse's front and hind legs to decrease the risk of potential injury.

[14] Injuries can occur when horses or riders collide with a barrel, fall on a sharp turn, or have an accident in the crowded gate area outside of the arena.