JACKSON, MS (Mississippi News Now) -
Sunday was the first day of competition for riders at the World Youth Barrel Horse Racing Championships.
Young riders from around the world have descended on the Mississippi fairgrounds.
More than 1,600 children from four countries and 36 states are participating in the exclusive world trials.
They are vying for hundreds of thousands of dollars in cash prizes and the title of world champion.
Officials tell us the youngest rider is four and the oldest is 19.
"Barrel racing is a clover leaf pattern around three barrels. You run against the clock. You don't have a judge. The fastest horse is gonna win. This is an invitational event. You can't just pull up and enter here. These children won in their home districts and won the right to come here," said MBHA Executive Director Sherry Fulmer.
Admission to the barrel horse race competition is $8-dollars. Children under six get in free.
Copyright 2011 WLBT. All rights reserved.
WLBT 3 - Fox 40
