July 4-13

Bareback

BAREBACK

This is the most physically demanding rodeo event. Using one arm, the cowboy holds onto the rawhide handhold of a riggin (a leather pad cinched around the horse's girth). The handhold is snug-fitting and is customized to the individual's grip. The stress on the rider's arm is intense as the riding arm absorbs most of the horse's power.

A bareback rider will be disqualified for touching the animal or equipment with his free hand, or bucking off before the end of the eight-second ride.

The bareback rider tries to reach as far forward as he can with his feet, then rolls his spurs back up toward the riggin. At the same time, he must keep from being pulled away from the handhold. The higher and wilder the rider spurs, the higher the marks.

Below is a list of contestants that have qualified for the Calgary Stampede.

POOL A

CONTESTANT HOMETOWN
Jess Davis Payson, Utah
Stephen Dent Mullen, Nebraska
Cimmaron Gerke Brighton, Colorado
Chris Harris Itasca, Texas
Jason Havens Bend, Oregon
Jason Jeter Mansfield, Texas
Dusty LaValley Crooked Creek, Alberta
Tom McFarland Wickenburg, Ariz.
Wes Stevenson Kaufman, Texas
Kelly Timberman Mills, Wyoming

POOL B

CONTESTANT HOMETOWN
Heath Ford Greeley, Colorado
Ryan Gray Petersburg, Texas
Russ Hallaby Hanna, AB
Evan Jayne Huntsville, Texas
Matt Lait Seven Persons, AB
Will Lowe Canyon, Texas
Justin McDaniel Porum, Oklahoma
Bobby Mote Culver, Oregon
Davey Shields Jr. Bashaw, Alberta
Travis Whiteside Longview, AB
*Contestants and pools are subject to change.