Learn to judge how this little Bronco Buddy scored on his ride.
Rodeo Scoring 101
To judge fairly and accurately and to appreciate the efforts of the contestants, judges must watch the brute raw strength of the livestock as well as the maneuvers of the cowboy.
Because the livestock’s performance accounts for half the rider’s score, judges look at darts, dives, twists and rolls. The tougher the ride, the more points the bull or bronc will be scored by the judges.
Failing to Spur: In bareback bronc and saddle bronc riding, the spurs must be touching the horse over the shoulders when the front hooves hit the ground during the first jump out of the chute. If a saddle bronc or bareback bronc rider fails to do this, he will be disqualified.
Touching the Livestock, Rigging or Himself: The rider cannot touch any of these with his free hand in bareback bronc, saddle bronc or bull riding. If he does, the judge will disqualify him.
Losing a Stirrup: If a rider loses a stirrup before the end of his eight-second ride in saddle bronc riding, the judge will make a hand signal to the announcers and timers immediately.
SCORING THE RIDER
BCRA Official Rule Book
BCRA OFFICIAL RULE BOOK
The rider must mark out his horse with the first jump out of the chute. The cowboy must ride for eight seconds.
The judge awards points primarily for spurring action in bareback and saddle bronc riding.
