Q I really want to learn how to ride bulls. Where do I start?
A Get in touch with your local Rodeo Association and see what information they have about bull riding schools, practice sessions etc. Most Rodeo Associations will be only too pleased to give advice to beginners. Attend as many bull riding schools as you can. They are the greatest way to start and you’ll learn all the best ways to keep yourself as safe as possible. If you live in the NT in Australia, contact the Northern Cowboys Association. Among lots of other things, they organise regular poddie riding schools for the youngsters which is the best way for the kids to start off.
Hook up with a good cowboy. This doesn’t mean humbugging someone who doesn’t want to know! A good rider will be a mine of invaluable advice and, hopefully, won’t be shy about passing it on to you.
Go to as many rodeos as you can. Watch the good bull riders and talk to them. Word of warning. Bull riders may not appreciate conversation from anyone before a ride, but they will probably be happy to talk to you afterwards. The reason for this is that a bull rider needs to focus on the ride ahead and prepare mentally for anything the bull might do. This can take an awful lot of concentration, so if a rider seems to be ignoring you, it may just be that he’s getting himself ready for the ride and hasn’t even realised you’re there! It’s true. I speak from personal experience.
Watch videos of the top bull riders. You can watch the same ride over and over and see something different every time. Slow the tape right down to catch every movement, every shift in balance, leg and arm position and angle of the head. This may not mean much to you to begin with, but you’ll soon start to get heaps of great information this way.
Q What gear will I need for bull riding?
A A bull rope, bell and rope pad. There are several kinds of ropes, and the best one is the one which feels right in your hand. The bell is to add noise and excitement to the ride and to help make sure the rope falls off the bull easily when you’ve finished, but make sure it’s a lightweight bell. Heavy ones can do a lot of damage and aren’t necessary.
Bull riding spurs. These are not quite the same as horse riding ones.
Chaps. Not essential but they look and feel good and can help your grip.
Glove. I use a Tiffany glove. The choice is yours. Whatever you feel is best on your hand.
Strapping tape. Lots of it.
Rosin, for providing grip on your rope.
Bull riding vest. Essential for upper body protection.
Face Guard. Some riders wear them for facial protection. They have become more popular among bull riders in the last few years, and can save your face from getting badly mashed.
Helmet. Mandatory for juniors in Australia. Optional for seniors.
A mouthguard. Very useful for protecting your teeth and gums. You can also get a jaw joint protector which gives protection to the teeth, jaw, tongue and brain.
Boots. Whatever you fancy. I prefer laceups.
Gear bag, for carting all your gear around the rodeos.
Try and get the best quality gear you can afford. Quite a lot depends on having good quality gear that is the right “fit” for you.The gear to get you started can be purchased at http://www.rodeohaven.com/bullriding.html
Source: http://www.codytapponline.com/cody’s_tips.htm
