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Bull Riding One of rodeo's most prominent events, bullriding is also the most exciting and favorite spectator event of rodeo. Bull riding has the added factor of danger for the contestant in swinging his/her leg over an unpredictable bull that may decide to come looking for him/her after the ride. Erratic and violent in their twists and leaps, these bulls require the stoutest of contestants to stay with them until the six-second whistle. As in most rough stock events, contestants ride with only one hand. Touching of the bull or self with the free hand or a "buck off" is a disqualification. In this event, the contestant maintains position by hanging on to a heavy rope that encircles the bull. Bull riding is scored by two judges each giving up to 50 points for the ride, 25 points possible for the bucking pattern and power of the bull and 25 for the form, control and spurring action of the rider. Both judges scores are combined to total a maximum 100 points for a qualified ride. Steer riding is basically the same as bull riding except that the animals are smaller and usually not as powerful. Also, steers tend to run in one direction rather than spinning or turning around. Most roughstock contestants learn to ride steers before trying bulls. Steer riding is scored the same as bull riding. |
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