Gymkhana Trainer

In Gymkhana, horse and rider maneuver around obstacles set in a memorized pattern in a race against the clock. Like Barrel Racing and Pole Bending, horses move as fast as they can while sliding into tight turns around obstacles set in a different pattern every class. This event is growing increasingly popular because the different patterns add to the excitement. The team with the fastest time and no fallen obstacles wins.

Riders enjoy the speed/adrenaline of the event as they strive to complete the pattern while utilizing their skills while going as fast as possible. They also love the pattern changing with every race, putting pressure on their training and relationship with their horse to complete the challenge faster as everyone else.

Gymkhana actually emphasizes the participation of children and young adults. The word “gymkhana” means “games on horseback” and the races are meant to teach young riders the responsibility of caring for their horse and develop horsemanship skills.

Being meant for young riders, competitors need to be able to handle their horses at full gallop while balancing their horse through tight turns around obstacles. Riders should have a least immediate level riding skills before participating in the games.

While the careful tight turns around barrels and explosive movements are shared components of both events, unlike Barrel Racing, the obstacle pattern is constantly changing and consists of more than just barrels.

Trainers that specialize in Gymkhana should assist in finding the right horse that matches the rider’s skill level long before competing in the games.