Bareback bronc riding is one of rodeo’s most physically demanding events.

The rider holds on with one hand, no saddle, and must stay aboard a bucking horse for eight seconds — while maintaining proper form and aggressive technique.

At the River City Rodeo, bareback riding is fast, intense, and highly technical. Here’s how it works and how it’s judged.

The Basics of Bareback Bronc Riding

Bareback bronc riding is a scored event.

The rider uses a rigging — a suitcase-style handle secured around the horse — instead of a saddle.

• One hand grips the rigging

• The other hand must remain free

• The rider cannot touch the horse or themselves with the free hand

If the rider touches with the free hand or is bucked off before eight seconds, the ride does not count.

Marking Out: The First Requirement

At the start of the ride, the rider must “mark out” the horse.

This means the rider’s heels must be above the horse’s shoulders when the horse’s front feet hit the ground on the first jump.

If the rider fails to mark out properly, they receive no score — even if they complete the eight seconds.

How Bareback Bronc Riding Is Scored

Bareback riding is scored on a 100-point system.

Half of the score comes from the rider. Half comes from the horse.

Rider Score (Up to 50 Points)

• Aggressive, continuous spurring motion

• Proper body position

• Upper-body control

• Timing with the horse’s movement

Horse Score (Up to 50 Points)

• Strength and power

• Height and kick

• Speed and direction changes

• Overall difficulty

Higher scores happen when both the rider and horse perform at a high level.

What Makes Bareback Different from Saddle Bronc?

Bareback riding is generally faster and more physically intense than saddle bronc riding.

• No saddle for support

• A tighter grip on the rigging

• More upper-body strain

• Faster, more explosive bucking action

Because there is less stability, riders rely heavily on core strength, leg drive, and timing.

What Judges Look For

Judges want to see riders in control from start to finish.

• Strong mark out at the gate

• Toes turned out and heels up

• Long, aggressive spurring strokes

• Balanced shoulders and hips

• Control at the eight-second buzzer

Riders who fall behind the motion of the horse or appear out of rhythm will score lower.

What To Watch For at the River City Rodeo

When watching bareback bronc riding in Evansville at the River City Rodeo, look for:

• How high the horse kicks

• Whether the rider stays centered over the shoulders

• Consistent spurring from jump to jump

• A strong finish at the buzzer

Bareback rides move quickly and can change in an instant. Control and timing make the difference.

See Bareback Bronc Riding Live at the River City Rodeo

Bareback bronc riding combines strength, endurance, and technique in one eight-second ride.

At the River City Rodeo, it is one of the most physically demanding events you’ll see in the arena.