The rider holds a bronc rein tied to a wide-band halter. On the first jump out of the chute, the rider must have his heels above the break of the the horse’s shoulder when the horses feet hit the ground for the first time. Known as rodeo’s premier event, saddle bronc riding is easily recognizable by the “rocking chair” motion of the rider on the horse.

Equipment:

  • Saddle
  • Spurs (rounded end)
  • Seat strap (wide leather and sheepskin strap covering the horse’s flanks)

Score:

  • 50% to the horse (jump height and kick strength)
  • 50% to the contestant (style and spurring motion)

Regulation time :

  • 8 seconds