Bareback Riding

Bareback riding is one of the most physically demanding events in rodeo. A bareback rider sits directly on a bucking horse, with only his own “riggin’” to hang onto. As the horse comes out of the chute, the cowboy’s feet must be above the break of the horse’s shoulders. He holds his feet up at least through the horse’s first move, usually a jump, then spurs the horse on each jump, matching the horse’s rhythm and showing control rather than flopping around. He may not touch the horse, his equipment, or himself with his free hand. If the ride lasts eight seconds, two judges award up to 25 points each for the cowboy’s “exposure” to the strength of the horse and his spurring technique and up to 25 points each for the horse’s bucking strength and moves.

BAREBACK RIDING The Info

Cowboys ride one-handed, bareback on the horse using a leather rigging to hold on. Their free hand cannot touch either the horse or their own body during the ride. A qualifying ride is eight seconds.

Riders must keep the rowels of both spurs in front of, and touching, the break of the bronc’s shoulders as it moves out of the shoot and must be in this position when the bronc’s front feet first hit the ground.

A “pick up” rider assists the cowboy at the end of the ride to see him safely to the ground.