We tend to focus on the horses in the barrel racing industry because of the pure talent, athleticism and heart they give us each and every day. However, more than just the horses keep our industry flourishing. It takes a myriad of individuals — no matter how large or small their roles — to keep the industry growing each year. Outside of the horses, the owners, breeders and trainers are the most commonly thought-of group, but we’re dedicating this issue to those professionals serving day in and day out to keep the industry growing. From vets and equine rehab and therapy professionals, to farriers and the expert ground crews, we’re highlighting the people who are behind the scenes yet integral to the barrel racing world.
We kick off this issue with advice from Charmayne James in her monthly column, where she discusses how you can build a working relationship with all the equine professionals in your life in an effort to help your horse. Then, don’t miss expert analysis of proper angles and shoeing practices in “Anatomy of a Hoof” with farrier Lee Olsen on page 14.
In our Equine Professionals section, Abigail Boatwright’s look at the business side of mobile units and what it takes to make a living with a equine mobile business on page 26 is a must-read. Then, BHN features the expert ground crews who’ve dedicated their careers to perfecting safe ground conditions at barrel races and rodeos in Maddy Rohr’s “Ground Guys,” beginning on page 32.
Plus, as we head into the hottest parts of the year, it’s important to make sure your horse is staying hydrated. In “Lead A Horse to Water,” written by Josie Mac Fladager, BHN catches up with experts in the industry to discuss how you can keep your horse hydrated this season, as well as tips on noticing signs of dehydration and what to do. This advice begins on page 20.
As always, this issue highlights the biggest events of the season, like the Better Barrel Races World Finals, Old Fort Days Futurity and Derby, the World Champions Rodeo Alliance Rodeo Corpus Christi, Kid Rock’s Rock N Rodeo, Ruby Buckle Guthrie, Yellow Rose Futurity and Derby, Josey Jr. World and Reunion and more, all beginning on page 39.
We hope you enjoy this issue. Be sure to stay up-to-date online at barrelhorsenews.com as BHN staff bring you the latest news, entertainment and training tips.
Until next time, stay safe.
— Kailey Sullins
Get your copy of the July 2025 issue here.
