Barrel Racing
Susie McConaghie
WPRA World Champion Barrel Racer
For most people, growing up in a non-horsey family prevents them from ever having access to horses or even learning to ride. Fortunately for Susie McConaghie, that wasn’t the case. Even though she didn’t grow up on a ranch or farm, she had her first pony at age three.
As the youngest of four children in a family that knew nothing about horses, Susie had to figure things out for herself. And that included learning to ride. She taught herself to stick on a horse and by the age of 13 she was chasing cans.
The three-year-old quarter horse she trained carried her all the way through high school, and along the way they both learned what they needed to know to compete in barrels. With a short, but typical hiatus from horses and barrel racing for college and a marriage, Susie returned to the world of barrel racing that she loved.
Today, she is married to a man who is her partner in more ways than just marriage. For 22 years, Larry has been with Susie literally every step of the way, as he participates in the horse business with her – LSM Barrel Horses (Larry and Susie) – and also goes on the road as she competes around the country.
Many people may be surprised to learn that Susie rarely trains the barrel pattern. “I do most of my training away from the pattern,” she explains. “I like my horses very broke. So I do drills throughout the week in the arena, and also in the pasture. And I fix most problems away from the pattern. Sometimes I’ll work phantom barrels in the pasture or arena. This keeps my horses’ minds fresh to the pattern so they don’t anticipate it, and also makes them very responsive to my cues. My horses really have a lot of try.”
Barrel racing has come a long way since it first began. Though the pattern may not have changed much, the way riders and owners take care of their horses has changed dramatically. “I think we’re reaching a time in the sport where it’s more humane than it’s ever been,” said Susie.
Among the equipment she uses routinely, you’ll find the typical leg protection boots, and also newer therapeutic devices like magnetic therapy blankets. She also uses FLAIR® Nasal Strips on her horses and believes they make a significant difference in how well they perform. Susie’s goal? Pro Circuit Finals.
Look for these three horses Susie is campaigning this year:
- Take A Second Glance (Glance)
- Silver Hummer (“Hummer”)
- Fabulous Harry (“Harry”)
