A rodeo is a type of sporting event where people compete in various events such as bull riding, calf roping, and barrel racing. In addition to these rodeo events, there is also the event of bronco or bucking horse riding. Bucking horses are specially trained and ridden by rodeo cowboys in order to get them to perform a series of exciting maneuvers, such as jumps, spins, and bucks. In order to do this, the rodeo horse must be conditioned and trained to respond to the rider’s cues.
What is a Bucking Horse?
A bucking horse is a horse that has been trained to respond to the rider’s cues in order to buck and throw the rider off. Bucking horses are usually specially bred and are usually of stock horse or quarter horse breeds. Bucking horses are usually trained to buck by a variety of techniques, including being taught to respond to pressure from a saddle, whip, or other cues.
What are the Different Types of Bucking Horse Maneuvers?
Bucking horses can perform a variety of moves, including:
- Spin – The horse will spin in a tight circle, usually at a high speed.
- Sunfishing – The horse will jump up and kick out its hind legs in an unpredictable pattern.
- Bucking – The horse will kick out its hind legs in a forward motion.
- Rear – The horse will throw its hindquarters up in the air and kick out its hind legs.
How do Rodeos Get Horses to Buck?
In order to get a bucking horse to perform the required maneuvers, there are several methods that can be used.
1. Training
The first step in getting a bucking horse to perform is to train them. This is done by teaching the horse to respond to the rider’s commands and cues. In addition, the horse must be trained to respond to the pressure of a saddle, whip, or other cues. This training can be done through the use of positive reinforcement, such as treats and praise, as well as by teaching the horse to respond to the pressure of the whip or saddle.
2. Desensitization
Another method of getting a horse to buck is through desensitization. This is done by introducing the horse to different stimuli, such as loud noises, sudden movements, and unfamiliar objects. This is done in order to get the horse used to these stimuli, so that when it is time to compete, the horse will not be startled and will be able to perform the required maneuvers.
3. Riding the Bucking Horse
Once the horse has been trained and desensitized, it is time to actually ride the horse. This is done by getting the horse used to the rider and getting the horse used to the pressure of the saddle and whip. This is done by having the rider get on the horse and practice the maneuvers, such as spins and bucks, before actually competing.
4. Stimulants
In some cases, stimulants may be used in order to get the horse to buck. These stimulants can include drugs, such as cocaine or methamphetamine, as well as other substances, such as sugar or caffeine. While the use of stimulants is not as common as it once was, it is still something that is used in some rodeos in order to get the horses to buck.
Is Bucking Horse Riding Dangerous?
Bucking horse riding can be a dangerous sport, as the rider is at risk of being thrown off the horse, which can result in serious injury. In addition, the horse can also be injured if the rider does not have the proper control or is unable to handle the horse correctly. In order to minimize the risk of injury, it is important for the rider to have the proper training and experience in order to handle the horse safely.
Conclusion
Bucking horses are specially trained and ridden by rodeo cowboys in order to get them to perform a series of exciting maneuvers. To do this, the horse must be trained and desensitized to respond to the rider’s cues, as well as the pressure of a saddle or whip. In some cases, stimulants may also be used in order to get the horse to buck. While bucking horse riding can be dangerous, it is important for the rider to have the proper training and experience in order to minimize the risk of injury.