Celebrating 108 Years
June 13 & 14, 2026
Rodeo 101
Welcome to the Livermore Rodeo education hub! This page is designed to help fans of all ages understand rodeo events—how they’re judged, common terms you’ll hear from the announcer, and what makes each event special. Whether it’s your first rodeo or your fiftieth, we’ve got you covered.
How Rodeo Scoring Works (Quick Overview)
Most roughstock events are scored on a 100‑point system:
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50 points for the animal’s performance
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50 points for the contestant’s performance
Timed events are won by the fastest clean run—penalties are added for rule violations.
Pro tip: You’ll often hear the announcer call out marks, times, and penalties. Scroll down to the Rodeo Lingo section if those terms sound confusing.
Bull Riding
The ultimate test of grit and balance. Contestants attempt to ride a powerful bucking bull for 8 seconds using only one hand.
Scoring:
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Rider control, balance, and spurring technique
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Bull’s strength, speed, and bucking intensity
Common Penalties:
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Touching the bull or yourself with your free hand
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Being bucked off before 8 seconds
Bareback Riding
Fast, furious, and physically demanding. Riders hold a rigging and must maintain rhythm while matching the horse’s movement.
Scoring Focus:
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Rider’s form, spurring motion, and control
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Horse’s power and consistency
Saddle Bronc Riding
Rodeo’s classic event—often called the “cowboy’s event.” Smooth, controlled rides are key as riders match the bronc’s motion.
Scoring Focus:
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Grace, balance, and timing
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Horse’s bucking action
Barrel Racing
Speed and precision on horseback. Riders race a cloverleaf pattern around three barrels.
Winning Factor:
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Fastest time
Penalty:
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5 seconds added for each knocked-over barrel
Team Roping
A true partnership—between riders and horses. One rider ropes the steer’s head, the other ropes the heels.
Winning Factor:
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Fastest clean catch
Penalty:
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Missing the head or heels
Tie-Down Roping
Speed, skill, and horsemanship combined. Contestants rope a calf, dismount, and tie three legs.
Winning Factor:
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Fastest time
Steer Wrestling
Also known as “bulldogging.” Riders leap from their horse to wrestle a steer to the ground.
Winning Factor:
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Fastest time
Rodeo Lingo
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Stock: The animal athletes
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Chute: The gate where the animal is released
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Mark Out: Rider’s feet must be above the horse’s shoulders on the first jump
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No Score: An incomplete or rule‑breaking ride or run
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Reride: A second chance due to equipment or animal issues
Rodeo Coloring Pages
