Talk:Bull riding

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Shouldn't there be something in this article about what makes the bull jump? Ortolan88

[edit] Flank straps and "why bull riding?"

The article should include at least a mention of the flank strap pulled at the time the chute is opened (as mentioned above.)

I understand that the events of the rodeo are contests based on the skills required in the various daily functions of the cowboy. When in the pursuit of his daily functions does a cowboy ride a wild bull? Cowboys are usually horsemen who manage the process of raising, managing, and transporting cattle. To the best of my knowledge, cowboys don't ride cows. This event in particular stands out a one specifically developed to show the courage and tenacity of the rider at the expense of the animal in question. I'd appreciate hearing any opinions on either side of this issue discussed here.—The preceding unsigned comment was added by 69.1.18.14 (talk • contribs) 21:12, June 13, 2004.

In my mind, a cowboy does not have to only be skilled with horses. Bull riding is a sport that takes courage and skill, and if you haven't noticed, bulls are usually not the ones hurt!

[edit] why they jump

There is really no outside reason as to why rodeo bulls jump. It is either in their personality or it is not. Yes, the flank strap does provide some irritation, but that's all. It is not tied to any extrimities. It is tied above the hips. Some rodeos will allow the use of a cattle prod to get the bulls moving if they don't start by themselves. But all of that is just addition to the natural kick of the bull. There are bulls that are tested and don't jump or kick. They don't get used in professional rodeo. Some practice rodeos may use them for people who are just starting, but nothing more. They jump because the rope tied in front of their legs

Bulls buck because they are bred that way. If you look into the genetics of these athletes, the breeder's take the ones that do perform, and use them to breed offspring that perform the same. It is a well thought out process and there is a system in place to track and monitor these animals. That system is the ABBI and NBBA. The flank strap alone does not cause the animal to buck. If the animal does not have it in its blood, it is not going to perform no matter what you put on its flank.