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NOVICE BAREBACK RIDING
Cowboys 21-and-under are paired up with young, up-and-coming horses from the Stampede Ranch. Novice riders follow the same rules as the Open Bareback Competition, and are judged on their control and spurring technique. Contestants in the Novice Bareback riding compete in a minimum of two go-rounds, with the top three competing in the finals.
THE RULES
Understanding how it works
HAND-HOLD
The rider must hold on with just one hand
NO TOUCHING
The free hand can’t touch the horse or equipment
MARK OUT
Out of the chute, spurs must touch above the horse’s shoulders
8 SECONDS
The rider must hold on for at least 8 seconds
