Horse Sense

The Use of Safety Equipment and Precautions by Rodeo Contestants

Rodeo is a tough sport. Even those events that may seem harmless, such as Goat Dressing, have their own set of risks. There are a number of simple precautions that will assist all rodeo competitors in minimizing injury.

1. 1. Warm Up! Always stretch before you being competing. If you're Calf Roping on Foot in the morning, your body is not ready to throw and your shoulders and back will appreciate it if you take some time to do some simple stretches. Get an experienced rough stock rider to show you some and use them. Stretch for any rodeo event, but especially ones where you will be running or straining your muscles (let's see, that's every event!).

2. 2. Make Sure Your Equipment is in Good Condition! Check all your equipment before competing and make sure it's in good condition. Are the ropes frayed or weak? Are any latigos in good condition and not showing excessive wear? Are your riggings adjusted and everything tightened the way it should be?

3. 3. Consider Using safety equipment.
   Vests. Many contestants have started using protective vests for rough stock and other events. A protective vest is padded with Kevlar® or some other material to help absorb the shock of a blow from hitting the ground or being stepped on/horned by an animal. Remember, the Wild Drag Race and Steer Decorating can be rough stock events depending on the stock! Vests can be expensive so you may need to borrow one from another contestant until you can afford to buy a custom-made one or buy one at a rodeo supply store (they can run between $175 and $500).

   Mouthpieces: Mouthpieces are inexpensive and can save the repair of your teeth if you bite down on them too hard while riding or trying to mount a steer. Gloves: For rough stock events they are a necessity! You'll also see contestants use gloves for Chute Dogging, Roping, and Steer Decorating. "Personal Protection.” It can be as simple as using ace bandages and tape to protect your hands, thighs, arms or any area of your body exposed to undue stress in competition. For women, it can mean consideration of using a sports bra. Some contestants use spandex shorts (bike shorts) to protect their buttocks and thighs while riding. Men should consider using jock straps and protective cups. Many contestants use pads while riding in roping and horse events to protect their shins and knees. Braces can help support a weak knee, elbow, or ankle.

4. 4. For Bull, Steer, and Bronc Riders. Get someone experienced to make sure you're sitting on the animal properly, that your rigging is on correctly, and that you have some idea of what to expect. Ideally, Bull and Bronc riders will come to IGRA rodeos with some training, but realistically, that doesn't always happen. Ask for help!

5. 5. Ask Someone Who Knows! If you're new to rodeo, ask advice from an experienced contestant or official. One of the great things about IGRA and gay rodeo is that people are willing and ready to help you if you're new and have questions. No one will be upset or think less of you for asking a question. We'd rather you ask than get injured.

6. 6. And Finally, Read the Rules! IGRA rules are written with your safety and the safety of our rodeo animals in mind. Read the General Rodeo Rules and the rules for the event(s) you'll be competing in. It could save you from unnecessary effort or acts that could lead to injury.!