Junior steer riders is competition for contestants aged 12–15. As in other roughstock events, half of the score is awarded for the cowboy’s ability to ride, and half for the stock’s ability to buck.

Contestants are allowed to ride with one or both hands. If they choose to ride one-handed, they’ll have to abide by the rules of bull riding—they’ll be disqualified for touching the animal or themselves with their free hand, or for grabbing with both hands during the eight seconds. The top six riders compete in the finals.