City slikers’ guide to Saddle Bronc Riding
Both the rider and the bronc are judged in Saddle Bronc Riding competitions for energy, rhythm, poise and control. Each of two judges can award up to 25 points for the rider and 25 for the bronc, making a total of 100 points possible. A score in the 80s is considered excellent. Riders who draw a horse that performs poorly are often give the opportunity for a re-ride.
Rein hand must stay in contact with the rein, which may not be wrapped around the hand
Rider must maintain control and stay centered on the animal
throughout the ride
Free hand must never touch any part of the horse or tack
Bronc must buck
throughout the ride and change direction often
Bronc is judged on speed and rhythm of kicks, including delayed kicks, and bucks
Rider must maintain a good rhythm, spurring first forward on the neck, then back on the saddle skirts and keep toes turned out throughout the ride
Bronc should hit the ground one foot at a time, causing it to change direc- tion
Bronc should kick as high as possible and create maximum distance between front feet and the ground
30 Tehama - the Magazine, May 2011
