Bareback Bronc Riding?
A specially designed collection of leather and cinches used for this event is called a “bareback riggin.” Compared to the bull rope, this one is really tied on to the animal and has a built-in hand hold. Another difference is that the rider must start the ride with both of his or her feet extended forward over the horse’s shoulders and on the first leap out of the chute, “rake” backwards toward the horse’s rump. If the rider misses this, called “marking out”, it does not matter how great the rest of the ride is, he or she will receive a DQ. If the rider is lucky enough to make the 6 seconds, he or she may be plucked to safety as the two “pick-up men” move in and attempt to rescue the rider from his or her bucking mount. Contestants may elect to ride two-handed from start to finish, but will also receive a lower score.
