National Finals Rodeo: Stay on it

Friday, Dec. 3, 2004 | 11 a.m.

Eight seconds on a beast that weighs a ton attests to either the foolish, or fearless, chromosome that makes a cowboy tick.

Considered a main rodeo attraction because of the extreme danger that exists in every ride, bull riding leaves crowds in awe.

As in bareback and saddle bronc riding, the bull rider is only allowed to use one hand.

A touch of himself or the bull during a ride results in immediate disqualification. Bull riders are not, however, required to "mark out" their animals.

Spurring can add to a cowboy's score, but riders are usually judged on their sole ability to stay aboard the ferocious animal.

To stay aboard, the rider holds a flat, braided rope, which is wrapped around the bull's chest just behind the front legs and over its withers. A rider commonly weaves the "tail" of the rope through his fingers for security.

Matt Austin, Wills Point, Texas

Jesse Ball, Camp Crook, S.D.

Fred Boettcher, Tomah, Wis.

Cody Buller, Glendive, Mont.

Clint Craig, Mena, Ark.

Paulo Crimber, Haltom City, Texas

Myron Duarte, Auburn, Wash.

Dustin Elliott, Tecumseh, Neb.

Cody Hancock, Taylor, Ariz.

Beau Hill, West Glacier, Mont.

Jason McClain, Lewis, Colo.

Cory Melton, Keithville, La.

Zack Oakes, Tonasket, Wash.

B.J. Schumacher, Hillsboro, Wis.

Jerry Shepherd, Levan, Utah