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Hi Brooke, while there are likely some ways you can help address this through training, the first area to look close at is always physical reasons for the behaviors you're seeing. It's quite possible there could be soreness that comes up when competing (but not necessarily lameness), that really feels even worse after that first run, or there could be stomach discomfort due to stress (which often contributes to gate problems, etc.). A thorough exam with a good performance Vet. is always the first step when troubleshooting something like this. Beyond that, if I can be more help through Video Coaching, please keep that in mind. Here's a link to learn more about the options to "Ride with Me" -> www.barrelracingtips.com/ride-with-barrel-racer-heather-smith/

Could be pain, check for soreness and get a chiropractor out! Same thing happened with my barrel mare and after an adjustment, she opened up

I have before but she also has a swayback

Bella & Nina that could be another reason but that depends on how severe the sway back is. If it’s not bad, I’d try breezing her in a big field to open her stride up

I didn't do another video to wrap up the series with the run, but did post updates of that weekend on social media. Here are the links from Instagram where I shared how it went + a video... instagram.com/p/BnMSK7FF0bW/?igshid=1hyyg6o6hnvmj instagram.com/p/BnMpwPYhg66/?igshid=1ljamr4hel2jw instagram.com/p/BnPc-WLBI2p/?igshid=1xfg9noyj456l instagram.com/p/BnWHeaqBtiB/?igshid=rxosiiq7s4pe

That resource is no longer available, but be sure you're signed up on the FREE GUIDE + TIPS page at BarrelRacingTips.com so you don't miss any future ones I share! Also wanted to mention an amazing deal right now on EquiVibe Vibration Platforms - more details are available at www.EquiVibeTherapy.com.

Barrel Racing Tips Thanks for your quick reply. I will sign up right away. That is a great deal on the Equivibe. I hope someday to have the budget for one of my own, thanks! God bless!

Happy to share Caitlin! ;)

There aren't many conditions that light therapy can't help with, and it certainly played a big part in Dot Com's successful comeback from a tendon tear. We use our Photonic Health lights regularly to stimulate acupoints and then RevitaVet pads as needed wherever each horse could use some extra TLC. Here's a description of the benefits of red light therapy: Healthy cells vibrate at about 660 nanometers, but when injury or illness occurs, the vibration level in the affected cells goes down. Increasing the vibration with red light therapy accelerates the mitochondria within the cell, which increases ATP production (Adenosine Triphosphate - a molecule in cells for storing and transporting energy). As this happens, signals are sent to the brain to increase cellular regeneration, release endorphins (a natural pain reliever), serotonin, anti-inflammatory enzymes, and suppress enzymes that create swelling, redness, and pain. Red light therapy increases lymphatic drainage and circulation and strengthens anti-viral properties by increasing antibody production in the bloodstream. It also relaxes tight muscles and quickly releases muscle spasms and cramps, as well as improves the structure of tendons, bones, skin and cartilage by increasing collagen production.

Oh okay that’s really cool technology, thanks for answering! Now I see what it’s for:)

So smart of you to resolve those physical issues and make sure the education/emotional aspect is taken care of too - well done Aizlynn!

Yes, getting the 'wrinkles' was a long-held tradition but a bit that's too tight (snaffle especially) can't work to it's maximum effectiveness if the horse can't feel the weight of the reins pick up and release as much, which is inhibited if the bit is always drawn up tight to the corners of their mouth.

Whatever is available in the office supply dept. of your local store works, but double-side carpet tape could also be a more heavy duty option.

Thanks Ruth!

Hi Emily, you can search for 'second barrel' at BarrelRacingTips.com and also check out this post on correcting wide turns -> www.barrelracingtips.com/how-to-fix-a-wide-turn-on-the-barrels/

Hi Madison, you can get five of my best first barrel exercises for FREE at -> bit.ly/FirstBarrelFixes. Also search for "first barrel" at BarrelRacingTips.com for even more helpful articles and videos. ;)

Barrel Racing Tips thank you!

You'll want to treat this similar to a gate problem, this post will offer some insights! -> www.barrelracingtips.com/seven-tips-to-solve-gate-problems-for-good

I read and watched the video. I have scheduled a vet exam... the thing is, she does great even in time onlys. Then, I go to make a run and she refuses to turn even if I see saw her a little bit and really sit. I want to cry. UGH!

These symptoms are indicators of things being overlooked in one or more of three foundational areas - mental (education), physical and emotional. It's really important that we prioritize our horse's well being and not allow our own emotions to become a factor - problems are an opportunity to learn! If you'd like more in-depth help, keep my video coaching in mind. Details are available on the RIDE WITH ME page at www.BarrelRacingTips.com.

Hi Julie, this video will provide a good start to troubleshooting that problem! -> czcams.com/video/dbEWwdTk1mI/video.html

The key is removing the reason they don't want to turn to begin with and ensuring that it's not allowed to happen again, but especially not repeatedly. The same ideas apply to ducking as running up the wall, there can be a variety of causes but the problem (therefore the solution) is basically the same. The starting point is always thoroughly resolving or ruling out physical issues.

Hi Jaymee, if your horse isn't staying straight between the 2nd and 3rd barrel, this post will be helpful -> www.barrelracingtips.com/two-contradictory-tips-to-be-straight-and-fast-between-barrels If your horse isn't quite running as fast as you know he can, check out the Need for Speed chapter in my book, 'The Next 50 Barrel Racing Exercises for Precision on the Pattern,' available (with FREE gifts) at -> www.50BarrelRacingExercises.com.

Hi Brooklyn, most important when it comes to helping our horse pick up the correct lead, is making sure we can yield there hips. This will help -> www.barrelracingtips.com/start-strong-to-finish-fast-catch-the-correct-lead-for-a-stress-free-alley-set-up-every-time

Yes, this is significantly more powerful than cold therapy, which temporarily reduces heat and inflammation, and often at only the skin level without penetrating deeper tissues. Microcurrent can restore function and heal even old injuries, so it's a great option for helping our horses continue to feel their best under the demands of hauling and performing. Cold therapy has it's place, and I use that as well - such as by applying ice boots after a ride or run. We do Microcurrent treatments a couple times a week, or as needed for our performance horses!

This device is called The Best Vet III from Matrix Therapy Products - www.TherapyProducts.net.

See my videos on "fights the first barrel" and bits for the "hard to please horse," you can search these topics at www.BarrelRacingTips.com. In these cases, it's not about the bit, it's more about the way we've prepared and educated our horses to respond to our hands and what we ask. ;)

•Fawni• I would try a French link to see if that helps!

Ashley, search for my "wide turns" post at BarrelRacingTips.com, it will offer insight for turns that are too tight as well. In general, you'll want to use your hands less and your body language and focus more to guide your horse.

To "unlock" a horse with frozen feet, I usually turn them sideways and then around in a circle to get momentum going again so they spend as little time as possible in that "stuck" mode... but the most important thing is addressing the root cause for why they are freezing and not responding.

One end is stuck up between the hat and the sewn on inner lining, and the other end goes into your hair. Sometimes I get them started before I put my hat on. With some hats they can be a little hard to get in, but once they are started through the stitching, they usually push right up.

Daisy, my FREE Speed Guide offered with purchase of my book, Secrets to Barrel Racing Success is a good place to start. Also search for "speed" in the upper right corner at www.BarrelRacingTips.com.