The Ranching Roots

Much like junior bull riding, steer riding doesn’t come from a specific ranch chore. Instead, it serves as an excellent learning environment! Before young cowboys/cowgirls are ready to transition to the scale and energy of a fully grown professional bull, they build their foundational skills by riding steers. It helps them develop their balance, learn how to handle the equipment safely, and build their confidence alongside animals that are of a more manageable size.

The Basic Rules

• An Optional Event: The NRCA classifies “SR” (Steer Riding) as an optional rodeo event.
• The Equipment: The young cowboys/cowgirls use a braided rope and hold on with one hand, gently preparing them for the transition to fully grown bulls.
• Safety First: Because this is typically a youth event, the NRCA strictly mandates that all competitors under the age of 18 (as of January 1st) must wear a securely fastened helmet. Also, in all riding events, a cowboy/cowgirl is allowed to use their free hand against the arena or chutes to protect themselves if they become unbalanced, at the judge’s discretion.
• The Clock: Just like the professionals, the young cowboys/cowgirls have to maintain their balance and complete the required time! In all riding events, both judges use a stopwatch to determine if it is a qualified ride.

How It’s Scored

• Steer riding follows the standard NRCA scoring method for all riding events.
• The ride is evaluated based on the performance of both the animal and the cowboy/cowgirl.
• The judges award a score ranging from 1 to 25 for the participant’s balance and skill, and from 1 to 25 for the steer’s athletic effort and energy. When you combine the scores from both judges, the maximum possible perfect score is 100 points.