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Saddle Bronc Riding
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Saddle bronc riding is
rodeo's classic event, both a complement and contrast to the wilder spectacles
of bareback riding and bull riding. This event requires strength to be sure,
but the event also demands style, grace and precise timing.
Saddle bronc riding evolved from the task of breaking and training horses to
work the cattle ranches of the Old West. Many cowboys claim riding saddle
broncs is the toughest rodeo event to master because of the technical skills
necessary for success.
Every move the bronc rider makes must be synchronized with the movement of the
horse. The cowboy's objective is a fluid ride, somewhat in contrast to the
wilder and less-controlled rides of bareback riders.
One of the similarities shared by saddle bronc and bareback riding is the rule
that riders in both events must mark out their horses on the first jump from
the chute. To properly mark out his horse, the saddle bronc rider must have
both heels touching the animal above the point of its shoulders when it makes
its first jump from the chute. If the rider misses his mark, he receives no
score.
While a bareback rider has a rigging to hold onto, the saddle bronc rider has
only a thick rein attached to his horse's halter. Using one hand, the cowboy
tries to stay securely seated in his saddle. If he touches any part of the
horse or his own body with his free hand, he is disqualified.
Judges score the horse's bucking action, the cowboy's control of the horse and
the cowboy's spurring action. While striving to keep his toes turned outward,
the rider spurs from the points of the horse's shoulders to the back of the
saddle. To score well, the rider must maintain that action throughout the
eight-second ride. While the bucking ability of the horse is quite naturally
built into the scoring system, a smooth, rhythmic ride is sure to score better
than a wild, uncontrolled effort.
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