In the world of rodeo, few animals evoke as much curiosity, admiration, and even trepidation as bucking horses. Often misunderstood and unfairly characterized as untamed or unruly, there is much more to these rodeo athletes than meets the eye. Beyond their often jaw-dropping displays of athleticism lies a trove of qualities that, if understood, could foster a deeper appreciation for the role these animals play in rodeo.
From their unwavering resilience to their keen intelligence and unparalleled spirit, these equine athletes have much to teach us about strength, perseverance, and the beauty of embracing one’s true nature.
It’s far past time to shine a light on the often-overlooked virtues of bucking horses. I invite you to see these incredible animals through a new lens of understanding and appreciation.
Bucking Horses are Loved and Cherished
One of the most pervasive myths surrounding bucking horses is the notion that they endure harsh treatment. However, the truth couldn’t be further from this misconception. Riders and stock contractors who work with bucking horses respect and admire them for the athletes they are. In fact, both riders and stock contractors would be out of jobs if these horses weren’t properly taken care of. Another important point to make is that you can’t make a 1500-pound animal do anything they don’t want to do. These animals were bred and raised to buck and some grow to love their jobs and if they choose that isn’t the path then they are sold as saddle horse prospects.
Nothing Touches Their Junk
This may be one of the more ridiculous myths surrounding both bucking horses and bulls. Contrary to concerns about their physical health, nothing touches “their junk.” Their working gear, including the soft, fleece-lined leather flank strap, is used more as a belt that goes around their waste. If you look closely at any photo of a bucking horse or bull, it is very clear that none of their family jewels are in jeopardy.
They Truly Have the Best Job
Despite their awe-inspiring performances, bucking horses lead remarkably balanced lives. With the hardest-working among them performing for just three minutes a year, they epitomize the idea of work-life balance. Their ability to excel in their craft stems from their innate talents, as bucking is a natural instinct honed over generations of selective breeding. Born into families of skilled bucking horses, they inherit the legacy of their predecessors, ensuring that their lineage remains unmatched in the world of equine athleticism. In addition to my earlier statement about horses deciding against a bucking career, there are some cases where bucking horses are saddle horse rejects. There are many cases of burned-out dressage and show horses who have had enough of their careers and get a second chance at life through being a bucking horse.
They Have a Better Retirement Plan Than Most Humans
Retirement for bucking horses is nothing short of idyllic. Born and raised in the pastures of the buckers that came before them, these horses enjoy a life of leisure once their careers come to an end. With the care that broncs receive throughout their lifetime, it’s common for them to get into their late 20s, which for horses is about average. They usually retire to the pastures they were born in enjoying the fruits of their labor in serene tranquility.
We Come in All Shapes and Sizes
Contrary to what people think, bucking horses come in a variety of shapes, sizes, and genders. While the general belief is that all broncs are stallions, that couldn’t be further from the truth. In fact, it’s actually easier to have mares as broncs and they do their job just as well. Additionally, while “bucking horse” isn’t a breed, you can think of broncs as the melting pot of horse breeds. They can be a little of everything, but they can also be purebred horses that were a reject in a previous life.
In essence, the lives of bucking horses are a testament to the deep roots of rodeo in America. They stand for freedom, strength, and can be a tie that brings people together. Far from being mere performers, they are beloved members of their communities, embodying the resilience, grace, and spirit that define their extraordinary existence.
