Bull riding is one of rodeo's most popular events. And it is one of the sport's most dangerous too. Here's how it works: A rider mounts a bull in a small pen called a chute and signals his readiness with a nod of the head. The chute opens and the bull storms through trying to free itself of its rider directly. The rider secures his poise with his one piece of equipment, a flat, braided rope tied round the bull's stomach. Bull riders hold on with just one hand; they hold the other out straight for balance. The bull bucks, spins, kicks, rears and twists. And if the rider stays on top for 8 seconds or more he scores points for rhythm and control. The rider with the most points wins.