This is just an idea. I want to get opinions on whether or not this is worth my time and money.

What are the chances of getting a BBR membership, going to the 8+ runs this summer/fall? Would their be a chance of qualifying for finals for 2026? Is it worth it? Do I need to invest in a another horse? (I currently have one in running shape and two retired old boys) How hard is it to qualify? 

All you have to do is attend 8 BBR races, or 6 if you are a gold card member. The difficultly level would be how many sanctioned races you have in your area. We have them everywhere so it is really easy to get them in. 

I've also thrown around the idea of joining so I could go, about all the races here are approved by bbr so the 8 wouldn't be a problem.  However, I have heard so many negative things about how expensive it has gotten that I decided not to do it.  My suggestion would be to check into the cost of going to the finals before you joined, that way you know what you could expect.

Ok thank you so much. We have plenty around here in North TX so that's not a problem lol. 

If you go to 8 races does that imedientaly qualify you for the finals?

Thanks!!!

MHMMM 

The cost is most likely going to be the make or break for me.

Im still trying to calculate entry fees, RV/stall cost, gas, and the one billion other expenses haha

Yes, all you need is to enter 8 races. If there's some that are Sat&Sun approved, then you have 2 entires in one weekend, so you could qualify in 4 weekends if thats available in your area as far as shows go 

Ok thank you! About 75% of barrel races around here are BBR approved or BBR pending so I don't think that I will have a problem with that lol.

Thanks for all of your help!

For anyone who has gone in recent years, is there round pens or pens to let your horse stretch out? Even if just for a few minutes?

My horse is turned out 24/7 on 40 acres with 20 other horses(not mine)  so I'm worried about how she would do for a week in a stall.

Also this may seem stupid for those of you who do this a lot but are the lights on in the stalls during the night?

Thanks!

A goal is a goal and you've got to start somewhere.  Getting qualified to go to the BBR is not difficult.  You attend the amount of races necessary and go. I keep track of entry fees and winnings on a spreadsheet throughout a year, but put the numbers down and look at what your investment is to go and make your decision from there based on your personal goal - that can adjust.  Weigh the pros and cons for picking and choosing where you want to go.

I qualify for the BBR Finals and do not enter because of one reason or another.  I've even won year end Top 10 awards and decide not to enter.  It's ok.  But, for me, it doesn't hurt to have the membership and make my decision to go to the finals based on my mood when the books are open.  

Yes - lights are on all night in the stall barns.  Yes there are places to get your horse out and stretch their legs. 

We have had some awesome storms during the BBR Finals. 

In short - if you can afford the membership and the shows you attend count for qualificaitions - you can make the decision to enter when the time comes and it's that time of year. 

The BBR finals is something to experience at least once.  It's a big show and worth the trip.  

I think you are totally right. Right now I truthfully don't want to readjust summer plans just to qualify. I am worried that we would get there and she wouldn't sleep or eat in the stalls and then wouldn't run well for the week. I think that this isn't the year for her or for me.

thanks for all of y'all's help 

Pay your membership - it's good for a year and hit the shows you feel like between now and then end of the year.  Then decide to attend next year.  I'll probably enter this year.  I knew I would be busy with work this year and never get to ride to be ready.  

Good Luck with your hauling goals!

THANK YOU SOOOO MUCH!

Good luck to you as well!

Super easy to qualify. You could even look for double point shows and get the majority knocked out in one weekend.