4D Barrel Race Prepares Racers for Slack

Ladies of varying ages brought their best barrel racing horses up to the 1st Community Federal Credit Union Spur Arena Sunday, Feb. 9, for the 4D Barrel Race.

The event was open, with anyone who paid the fee being allowed to compete, and even register multiple horses, providing future champion hopefuls the opportunity to ride along with world champion barrel racers.

“We hold it this weekend (before the rodeo) because everyone is already here for the slack,” explained Macy Schwartz, Livestock Coordinator for the San Angelo Stock Show and Rodeo.

In addition to having a hefty sum of money for a jackpot, the event provides a chance to practice on the very same dirt that the horses will run on during the rodeo.

“The guy who did the dirt today will do the dirt tomorrow for the slack and during the performances,” said Schwartz. “It gives the girls a chance to see what the dirt is like and decide which horse to use.”

The fastest time of the day was Cassie Moseley with a run of 14.225. By comparison, the record is 13.52 seconds, according to NFR, though size and conditions vary.

Results for the 4D Open Barrel Racing can be found here.

Barrel Racing Slack took place Monday, Feb. 10 and results are here.