Saddle Bronc

Saddle Bronc riding is considered rodeo’s classic event. The event evolved from the ranch chore of breaking and training horses to work the cattle ranches of the old West. Ranch hands would gather and compete to see who could ride wild horses with the most style.

The event requires style and precise timing. Strength is secondary. Cowboys claim saddle bronc riding as the toughest event to master because of the technical skills required. The rider synchronizes their spurring action with the movements of the horse to achieve a fluid, more controlled ride.

The rider begins with his feet over the horse's shoulders, this is known as "marking out," or they receive no score. The saddle bronc rider has only a thick rope attached to the horse’s halter. The cowboy can only use one hand while they try to stay in the saddle. If the rider touches any part of his horse, the saddle or his own body with his free hand; or if either foot slips out of a stirrup or if the buck rope is dropped during the eight second ride, the cowboy is disqualified.

The criteria for judging include the horse’s bucking action, the control the cowboy has over the horse and their spurring action. The rider’s objective is to keep his toes turned outward, and spur from the points of the horse’s shoulders to the back of the saddle. If the rider maintains this action through the ride, they will score well.

While the bucking ability of the horse is naturally built into the scoring system, a smooth, rhythmic ride will score better than a wild, uncontrolled ride.