The Ranching Roots

Saddle bronc riding is deeply rooted in the history of the Old West. Before cars and ATVs, ranchers relied on horses for everything. But those horses needed to be accustomed to working with humans, so they had to be patiently trained to accept a rider and a saddle. Cowboys/cowgirls would saddle up horses and work with their natural energy until the animal grew comfortable. Today, that historical ranch practice has become a highly stylized and incredibly athletic rodeo event!

The Basic Rules

• The Equipment: Unlike the bareback event, the cowboy/cowgirl uses a regulation saddle, a halter, and a single woven rein.
• The 8-Second Clock: The cowboy/cowgirl must stay on the spirited horse for a full 8 seconds. The clock officially starts the exact moment the horse’s inside shoulder clears the chute gate.
• The Grip: The rider holds the single rein with one hand, and that rein must stay on the same side of the horse’s neck as the riding hand. The cowboy/cowgirl is instantly disqualified if they drop the rein, wrap it around their hand, or switch hands during the ride.
• The “Free Hand” and Stirrup Rules: The cowboy/cowgirl’s free hand must stay in the air! If they touch the horse, their equipment, or the saddle with their free hand, they are disqualified. They will also be disqualified if their foot slips out of a stirrup during the ride.
• “Marking Out”: Just like in bareback riding, the cowboy/cowgirl must have their heels placed above the break of the horse’s shoulders when the horse’s front feet hit the ground on its first movement out of the chute. If they miss this mark, it is an automatic disqualification.

How It’s Scored

• This is a judged event where the animal’s athleticism is just as important as the human’s.
• Two judges watch the ride. Each judge can award a maximum of 25 points for how well the cowboy/cowgirl rides, and up to 25 points for the athleticism and energy of the horse’s movements.
• These points are added together for a maximum perfect score of 100 points. The judges are looking for a smooth, rhythmic ride where the cowboy/cowgirl moves their heels in harmony with the horse’s natural rhythm.