Categories: Rodeo News

2015 WPRA Event Calendar and Coverage

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History of Barrel Racing

Barrel racing is believed to have started in Texas. It was unknown in other western states before the 1930s, but quickly spread. At first, females only competed in minor rodeo events, and it was left to the discretion of local rodeo organizers to decide if and when they could participate. However, as women’s events became more popular, their participation was widely accepted. In 1931 in Stamford, Texas, young female riders would often lead the rodeo parade and stay to participate in social events later in the day. They were awarded prizes for horsemanship, which was demonstrated by riding in figure eights around barrels. In 1935, Stamford changed the barrel racing to a cloverleaf pattern. This was the beginning of female barrel racing events. Judging by the shortest time was not added until 1949. All-girl rodeos became the fashion during World War II, but as with many opportunities for women, their participation was supplanted when the men returned from the war. However, women’s barrel racing returned in the late 1950s through the 1970s, when women’s athletic activities of all types enjoyed a resurgence in the culture.

Today’s Barrel Racing Events

Barrel racing quickly became a popular activity, with prizes that equaled men’s dominated rodeo events. From its beginnings as a sort of beauty competition with horseback riding included, it has become a sport of skill, accuracy and profound connection between horse and rider. Barrel racing now draws as much interest as the male-dominated riding and roping events.

Read More about Women’s Professional Rodeo Association (WPRA)

The Womens Professional Rodeo Association started out as the Girls Rodeo Association in 1948, an organization that was formed by 38 women riders to advance activities for women in rodeo.
It was one of the oldest women’s sports organizations in the United States and has always been governed by women.
By 1981, the organization had changed its name to reflect the wider interest in women’s sports.
Today, the Woman’s Professional Rodeo Association is responsible for organizing the World Championship Barrel Racing Competition

Aaron Kuhl

Aaron Kuhl is a passionate advocate for the western lifestyle, bringing a wealth of experience and expertise to his role as Chief Operating Officer (COO) at Cowboy Lifestyle Network (CLN). Growing up as an Arizona native, with a mother who worked for Wrangler Western for over 30 years, Aaron was immersed in the cowboy culture from a young age. Aaron and his sister Heather grew up watching rodeos, as their grandfather and uncle were PRCA ProRodeo cardholders. This early exposure has given him a profound understanding and appreciation for the western way of life. Aaron went to Corona del Sol High School in Tempe, AZ, then to the University of Arizona in Tucson, AZ, where he received a Bachelor of Science after creating his own major. This unique course of study wove together Business Marketing, Geography, Sociology, Philosophy, and Religion. After graduating from the University of Arizona, Aaron joined CLN in its nascent stages, contributing to its growth and development over the past decade. As COO, Aaron manages operations, using AI to streamline processes and analyze data, ensuring CLN remains a leading voice. With expertise in business development, he innovates and cultivates client relationships, supporting CLN’s exponential growth. Beyond his professional accomplishments, Aaron values his faith, family, and friends, which are the cornerstones of his life. This personal foundation, combined with his professional expertise, makes him a trusted and authoritative voice in the western lifestyle community. Aaron’s commitment to philanthropy is the bedrock of his personal ethos. He actively supports local Arizona organizations such as the American Heart Association, the Boys & Girls Club, Chandler Compadres, Horses Help, Harris Brothers Charity Foundation, and Darkhorse Benefits and Operation Guardian (among others), reflecting his dedication to giving back and strengthening the community he calls home. Through his work, Aaron aims to preserve and promote the traditions of the west, ensuring that the spirit of the cowboy lives on for future generations.