Even the good bareback riders are often thrown, but the fall as a rule is “clean” and results only in the cowboy being thoroughly jarred.
BIG BRAHMA AND COWBOY PART COMPANY
BULL RIDING
This is an extreme test of balance and courage. Bull riders are usually “top hands” and represent the cream of fancy riders. Brahma bulls are ridden with only “bull rigging,” which consists of two ropes, one around the flank and one serving as a cinch with a bell to irritate and infuriate the animal. They are always unpredictable and hard to ride.
The Brahma bull’s skin is very loose, like that of a dog, and the rider must stay on by sheer balance. Oftentimes the bulls become mean and dangerous unless distracted by a man in the arena. A so-called “clown,” actually an expert at distracting the bulls, is a part of the rodeo performance, and it is he who prevents the animals from turning on thrown cowboys.
Adding to the excitement at these events is the fact that Brahmas can and do quite often leap an eight-foot fence.
MORE TRANQUIL MOMENTS
Not all of a cowboy’s life is rough, back-breaking work or exhibitions. There are long hours of pleasant sunshine and companionship with friends, including his “best friend,” his horse.