Saddle Bronc Riding
Saddle Bronc Riding
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.
Dan Erickson shows the form and technique that have made him
a Wranger NFR qualifying saddle bronc rider. 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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