Meet the Awardees and Champions of 2024!
- Keyri Matta
- Jan 15
- 8 min read
At Barriler@s, Inc., every year fills us with pride as we recognize the effort, dedication, and achievements of our talented riders. 2024 was no exception, with unforgettable moments both on local and international arenas. This season was marked by growth, personal improvement, and the sportsmanship that defines our community.
Today, we highlight the champions who shone in their categories and the honorary members who, through their commitment, have left an indelible mark on our association. Their passion for horses and equestrian sports inspires us to continue working to foster opportunities and achieve new goals as a team.
Join us in celebrating those who made their mark in 2024! 🌟
All Around MVP 2024
The All Around MVP is the rider with the highest score across the entire competition stage in barrels and gymkhana, standing out for their exceptional performance in the open category. This award is based on the cumulative score in barrels by category, fast time by category, open category performance, fast time in the open category, total gymkhana score, and points for attendance and participation.
This award reflects not only skill but also the consistency and dedication of an athlete who has demonstrated outstanding mastery in every race. A truly well-deserved achievement for someone who has reached the pinnacle of the sport within our association!
Xiorimar Meléndez, with a total score of 193.5 points, achieved a remarkable milestone, not only on a personal level but also for the association as a leader in the sport.
Barrels MVP 2024
At Barriler@s, Inc., we celebrate the effort and excellence of our riders, and this year, we are proud to recognize Xiorimar Meléndez as the 2024 Barrels MVP. Xiorimar concluded the season with the highest score in the open category, achieving 45 points. Her skill, dedication, and passion for barrel racing have made her stand out not only as an exceptional athlete but also as a role model within our equestrian community.
From her impeccable performance in competitions to her unwavering support for her teammates, Xiorimar embodies the values that define us: commitment, humility, and love for the sport. This recognition celebrates not only her achievements on the arena but also the positive impact she has had on Barriler@s, Inc.
Join us to learn more about her incredible season and what makes a true MVP! 🌟🐎
Barrel Champions per Category 2024
2024 was an extraordinary year for Barriler@s, Inc., filled with excitement, challenges, and unforgettable victories. Each competition showcased the talent and dedication of our riders, who gave their all on the track to achieve their goals. Today, we celebrate the champions and runners-up in barrels from the Youth, Teen, and Adult categories, who proved that with effort and passion, limits can be surpassed, and dreams can be conquered.
Each of these categories witnessed impressive displays of skill and teamwork. Our riders stood out not only for their achievements but also for embodying the values of perseverance and camaraderie that define us as a community.
CHAMPIONS
YOUTH: Sophia Turri with 33 points
TEEN: Ana Sophia Irizarry with 45 points
ADULT: Xiorimar Meléndez with 52 points
RUNNERS-UP
YOUTH: Isabella del Mar Criado with 29 points
TEEN: Gabriella Mia Criado with 28 points
ADULT: Victor Figueroa with 25 points
Join us in reliving their moments of glory and getting to know the incredible protagonists of this unforgettable season! 🏆🐎
Top 10 Barrel Racers 2024
At Barriler@s, Inc., 2024 was filled with thrilling moments and high-level competitions that showcased the talent and dedication of our riders. This year, we proudly celebrate the Top 10 Barrel Racers, a group of athletes who have demonstrated consistency, excellence, and dedication throughout the year. This recognition is awarded to those barrel racers who participated in at least three events during the season and maintained an outstanding average in barrel racing competition. More than competitors, these athletes exemplify continuous effort, discipline, and a love for the sport we all share.
Each one of them represents the competitive spirit and excellence that define our equestrian community. From impressive clock-stopping runs to their unwavering commitment during every training session, these athletes have left an indelible mark on this season.
Meet the Top 10 of 2024 and celebrate their achievements with us! 🐎✨
Top 10 Barrel Racers | Average Time (seconds) |
| 18.757 |
| 18.987 |
| 19.055 |
| 19.727 |
| 19.810 |
| 20.050 |
| 20.138 |
| 20.158 |
| 21.222 |
| 21.515 |
Recognizing the Best in Gymkhana 2024
We celebrate the athletes who shone in every discipline, and this year, we want to congratulate our 2024 Gymkhana MVP, Xiorimar Meléndez, with 45 points in the open category, for her outstanding performance, skill, and dedication on the arena. Her unwavering effort has made her a true leader in this category.
We also extend our congratulations to the Gymkhana Runner-Up, Ana Sofía Irizarry, with 30 points in the open category, who demonstrated impressive talent and competitive spirit throughout the season.
Both of them are a source of pride for our equestrian community!🐎🏆
Recognition for Most Impactful Riders in 2024
Top Speed Award
This award recognizes exceptional skill and expertise in achieving unbeatable times on the arena with barrel measurements of 30’ from timer to the barrel, 70’ between Barrel 1 & 2, and 90’ to the 3rd barrel.
It’s important to mention this historical fact: the fastest time of 2023 was set by Gabriella Criado on Atabeira, a Colombian Paso Fino mare, with a time of 17.050 seconds. Xiorimar Meléndez and Compa broke that record, clocking in at 16.725 at the last event of December 2023 in AA Ranch, Sabana Grande. The times of 16.725 and 17.050 remain the fastest in our organization. We are filled with pride, anticipation, and excitement, knowing that these times will continue to decrease. This will be the result of our horses' improvement, our riders' skills, and the quality of our tracks.
Today, we recognize a rider who continues to leave her mark with speed and precision: the incredible Xiorimar Meléndez, winner of the Top Speed award. Xiorimar has once again proven why she is a favorite on the arena. In 2024, with an impressive time of 17.243, she remains undefeated in her category, reaffirming her position as one of the fastest. But that’s not all—last year, she set the current record of 16.725, a time that continues to be the benchmark to beat.
Xiorimar, your skill, focus, and passion for the sport are unparalleled. Every race shows us that you’re not just chasing victory but excellence. Congratulations on this well-deserved recognition and for continuing to lead the way with your speed!
Fear Fighter Award
The Fear Fighter Recognition is awarded to the rider who has demonstrated bravery in challenging situations and has not backed down in the face of adversity. This award celebrates their resilience, determination, and unbreakable courage.
With this recognition, we celebrate the courage and resilience of our Fear Fighter Award winner, Sophia Turri.
Sophia is a clear example that even when life knocks you down, you can always rise stronger. Throughout her journey, she has faced challenges that would have discouraged anyone, from falls to the constant learning with different horses.
Her unshakable spirit shone brightly, especially in NBHA competitions, when, at the last moment, the horse she had been practicing with suffered an injury. In a true test of bravery, Sophia rode a new horse with just one practice session, demonstrating her ability to adapt, overcome any obstacle, and achieve runs of 15 and 16 seconds in the NBHA World Youth and Teen Championship 2024.
Today, we celebrate her growth, determination, and passion for this sport, which not only inspires those around her but also reminds us that true success is measured by our willingness to keep moving forward. Congratulations, Sophia, you are a true fighter!
Spirit Award
The Sportsmanship Award is a recognition given to the member who loves the sport beyond winning, demonstrating kindness, acceptance, and respect for all living beings. This award celebrates their passion for the sport and their commitment to the values of empathy and respect that Barriler@s proudly upholds.
We celebrate the passion and unwavering spirit of an exceptional rider: Ivonne Román, winner of the Spirit Award.
Ivonne is a woman with big dreams and an even bigger heart, who shares a unique bond with her faithful mare, Fiona. Her love for barrel racing is undeniable, and she never tires of talking about this sport she is so passionate about.
Although this year she faced a pause in competing because Fiona was nursing her foal, Ivonne was always present, showing her commitment to our community. Her knowledge and dedication to horse care reflect a wisdom that goes beyond her humble and warm smile. Ivonne, your energy, enthusiasm, and love for this sport inspire us all. You are an example that the true spirit of a rider lives in the heart!
Sportsmanship Award
The Exemplary Sportsmanship Award is given to a member who inspires and treats others with respect, helps without seeking recognition, acts with integrity at all times, and accepts the judges' decisions with humility and respect. This award celebrates their commitment to the values of fair play and camaraderie.
Today, we celebrate an athlete whose generosity and exemplary spirit are an inspiration to all: Ana Sofía, winner of the prestigious Exemplary Sportsmanship Award.
Ana Sofía not only shines on the track but also off of it. She has dedicated time to teaching, sharing her knowledge, and motivating new riders to enter the exciting world of barrel racing. Always willing to give her best for others, she has demonstrated that true sportsmanship is not just about competing but about uplifting those around us. In 2024, Ana Sofía participated in all the events held by NBHA-PR and in the Rodeo Component (Barrels) of Barriler@s.
With her positive attitude, dedication, and generosity, Ana Sofía is the perfect example of how to build a stronger and more united community. Thank you, Ana Sofía, for your invaluable impact on Barriler@s, Inc.!
Ace Team Award
The Ace Team Award is a recognition given to the rider and horse duo that has shown the greatest progress throughout the year. This award celebrates their dedication, effort, and continuous growth in their joint performance.
Today, we celebrate a duo that has shown that dedication and effort can turn any beginning into a success story: Nina Pérez and her inseparable mare, La Sorulla.
This was their first year on the track, and although they faced challenges—knocking over barrels and running times in the 27s and 24s—their determination and growth were unstoppable. With each competition, Nina and La Sorulla made it clear that they were ready for more.
Their progress has been so impressive that they close the year as champions of the Southwest Saddle Circuit, running times of 18 seconds and taking home a saddle as a reward for their effort and talent.
Congratulations, Nina and La Sorulla! This achievement is well deserved, and we are excited for everything that lies ahead for you. You are a true example of overcoming challenges and perseverance!
Thank You for Celebrating with Us!
Our 2024 was a year filled with achievements, challenges overcome, and unforgettable moments at Barriler@s, Inc. Recognizing our champions, runners-up, and outstanding athletes is a way to celebrate not only their effort but also the growth and unity of our equestrian community.
We extend our heartfelt gratitude to each sponsor, rider, family, volunteer, and supporter who made this incredible season possible. Your support and commitment are the driving force that motivates us to continue promoting equestrian sports in Puerto Rico and beyond!
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