Written by Visit Stampede / Photo Credits: Calgary Stampede
A Sport Born from the Wild West
Bareback riding is one of rodeo’s oldest and most iconic events, with roots tracing back to the working life of cowboys in the American and Canadian West. In the early days, cowboys had to tame and ride unbroken horses—often without the luxury of a saddle—as part of their daily ranch duties. This practical necessity laid the foundation for what would become a thrilling competitive sport.
By the late 19th and early 20th centuries, taming wild horses had become a celebrated skill, and rodeos began featuring bareback riding as a showcase of cowboy courage and athleticism. The event evolved from ranch work to organized competition, with the first professional rodeos including bareback riding as a main attraction by the early 1900s.
The Rules: Eight Seconds of Adrenaline
Bareback riding is a roughstock event where the rider must stay atop a bucking horse for eight seconds using only a specialized leather rigging—not a saddle. The rigging, inspired by the innovations of rodeo pioneer Earl Bascom, features a suitcase-style handhold attached to a leather strap wrapped around the horse’s girth.
Key rules include:
- No Saddle: The rider uses only the rigging for grip.
- Eight Seconds: The ride is scored only if the rider lasts the full eight seconds.
- Marking Out: The rider must “mark out” the horse—keeping their spurs above the horse’s shoulders as it leaves the chute.
- Free Hand: The rider’s free hand must not touch the horse, rigging, or their own body during the ride.
- Scoring: Judges award up to 50 points for the rider’s performance and up to 50 for the horse’s bucking, with top scores often exceeding 80 points4.
Top Competitors: Legends and Rising Stars
Historic Greats:
- Bill Linderman: A multi-event champion and early rodeo legend.
- Larry Sandvick: Known for his dominance in the 1960s.
- Joe Alexander: A three-time world champion in the 1970s.
- Bruce Ford: Set records in the 1980s and is considered one of the best ever.
Current Standouts:
- Kaycee Feild: Multiple world champion and record-setter in the 2010s.
- Tim O’Connell: Known for his dynamic style and multiple world titles.
- Caleb Bennett: Consistently ranked among the top bareback riders today.
Bareback Riding at the Calgary Stampede
The Calgary Stampede is one of the world’s premier rodeos, and bareback riding is a cornerstone event. The Stampede’s bareback competition attracts the best riders from across North America, all vying for the coveted “Stampede Champion” title and a share of the event’s substantial prize money.
At Stampede, the atmosphere is electric. The crowd roars as riders face off against some of the toughest bucking horses in the business. The event is a highlight of the Stampede’s rodeo lineup, showcasing the raw power, athleticism, and bravery that define bareback riding.
The Calgary Stampede has also played a role in advancing the sport. The event’s high stakes and large audience have helped elevate bareback riding’s profile, making it a must-see spectacle for rodeo fans around the world.
Why Bareback Riding Captivates
Bareback riding is more than just a test of strength—it’s a display of courage, timing, and sheer determination. From its roots on the open range to the bright lights of the Calgary Stampede, this event remains a thrilling embodiment of rodeo tradition and spirit.
Whether you’re a lifelong fan or a first-time spectator, bareback riding is sure to leave you on the edge of your seat—and in awe of the men who dare to ride without a saddle.
