Southern Arizona Barrel Racing Association (SABRA)

The Southern Arizona Barrel Racing Association refers to an organization comprised of female members who enjoy the sport of barrel racing in southern Arizona. Membership into the Tuscon organization is open to anyone holding a (WPRA) Women’s Professional Rodeo Association card. Active members pay dues, attend scheduled meetings and abide by the guidelines as established by the S.A.B.R.A. Honorary members are inducted through a majority vote by active members.
In addition to competing in local or regional rodeo events, the association regularly sponsors more than 12 events during the year. Participating in association sponsored events requires submitting the appropriate entry form. As a member of the organization that promotes barrel racing in southern Arizona, event participants gain points when placing in sponsored events. Awards are presented based on the number of points accumulated throughout the year. The association has a long list of local and regional sponsors that include:

• Providence Service Corporation
• Post Feed & Supply
• Shiloh Saddlery
• Tod Slone Saddles
• Montana Silversmiths
• Silver Lining Herbs
• Cavallo Horse & Rider
• Pima Pet Clinic
• Dally Down Western Supply
• Vaquero Feed & Livestock Supply
• Old Town Feeds
• International Wildlife Museum
• Carnival of Illusions
• Tucson Equestrian Center
• Linda Britt Design
• Home Depot
• Lowe’s

Susan G. Komen Barrel Race

Upcoming events featuring barrel racing in southern Arizona include the Susan G. Komen Barrel Race.
The show is scheduled to take place on Saturday, October 18th and Sunday, October 19th, at the Pima County Fairgrounds. S.A.B.R.A. members are encouraged to participate. A Mexican buffet dinner will follow the race at the Cantina on Saturday night. The dinner will also feature a raffle drawing and a silent auction

History of Barrel Racing

The competitive sport of barrel racing in southern Arizona has roots that originated in Texas during the 1930s. Women took part in western shows and rodeos from the 1880s in the form of trick riding. In the majority of events, cowgirls led the parade, played small roles in minor rodeo activities and danced with the cowboys. However, in 1932, The cowboy reunion weekend rodeo in Stamford, Texas, decided to invite women aged 16 and older to obtain sponsors and participate in the event. Awards were presented for “best mount,” “most attractive riding outfit” and “best horsemanship.” The horsemanship activity involved riding in a figure eight configuration around barrels. By 1935, the configuration transformed into the cloverleaf pattern that is replicated today. Barrel racing became a speed-orientated competition in 1949.