So in a couple years we plan on moving in the north/South Carolina, Tennessee, Virginia, Kentucky area. Trying to look for a place where those states are accessible with a several hour drive, but not too far away. Is barrel racing well known in that area? Is there opportunities to go pro in those states? 

Not sure what you mean by going Pro but if it is WPRA there is some. There are lots of barrel races with lots of money added in Kentucky, Tennessee, and surrounding states.