The Ranching Roots

Just like learning to rope or ride fast horses, learning to ride spirited animals starts at a young age! Young cowboys/cowgirls who want to eventually ride larger, fully grown bulls start their journeys with smaller, younger animals. This gives them the valuable opportunity to learn balance, timing, and how to safely use their equipment before they transition to the professional circuit.

The Basic Rules

• The Equipment: The young cowboys/cowgirls use the exact same gear as the professionals! They hold on using a braided “bull rope” that must have a metal bell attached underneath. Without that bell, the ride doesn’t count.
• Safety First: The NRCA highly prioritizes protecting its young athletes. All competitors under the age of 18 (as of January 1st) must wear a securely fastened helmet. Additionally, a protective vest is mandatory for anyone participating.
• The 8-Second Clock and The Grip: The guidelines in the arena mirror the open bull riding event. The young cowboy/cowgirl must stay with the energetic animal for a full 8 seconds. They are only allowed to use one hand, and if their free hand touches the bull, their equipment, or the dirt before the whistle blows, they are disqualified.
• The Safety Personnel: Just like in the professional ranks, there are always two qualified bullfighters, or safety personnel, in the arena during the event. Their role is to step in and gently redirect the bull’s attention to protect the young cowboys/cowgirls the moment they safely dismount or separate from the animal.

How It’s Scored

• This is a judged event where the animal and the cowboy/cowgirl are both scored.
• Two judges score the ride. Each judge can award up to 25 points for the cowboy/cowgirl’s skill and control, and up to 25 points for the bull’s athletic effort and energy.
• These scores are combined for a total possible perfect score of 100 points.