In the new format of The American Rodeo, contestants compete in qualifiers across the country to earn a seat in one of three regional semi-finals. From each of the East, Central , and West Regional Semi-Finals, five barrel racers advanced to The American Rodeo Semi-Finals. That field of fifteen will narrow to five for the Showdown Round held in Globe Life Field in Arlington, Texas. Five ”contenders” will go head-to-head with the top five cowgirls from the 2025 WPRA Barrel Racing World Standings. Each event will pay $100,000 to the winner. The contenders (athletes who did not earn an automatic qualification through the World Standings) have a shot at an additional $2 million in prize money in 2026. Many of the best teams in the country sought a spot on the roster, and the field is now set. There are several unique facts about the field of barrel racers this year. Three competitors aged 12 and younger have qualified.…