rodeo event in which a cowboy attempts to ride a bucking horse (bronco) for a specified time (usually eight seconds). The horse is equipped only with a surcingle—a rope belt about its midsection—which the rider may grip with one hand only. The rider must have his spurs in contact high on the horse's shoulders to begin the event, and he is disqualified if he is thrown off, touches the horse with his free hand, or allows the surcingle to slip off the horse. Horse and rider are scored separately for their performance, and the rider with the highest total is the winner.