Rodeo Draws and Stock Selection

What is a rodeo draw?

A draw is the process that assigns contestants to animals or to positions in the run order. In rough stock events, each rider is matched with a bucking animal. In timed events, the draw usually sets the order in which contestants run. Draws are meant to be fair and random within the rules. Some rodeos use a bareback or bronc riding pick-out that allows riders to choose among available animals in a set order. These systems differ and are described in the rulebook.

Different associations use different procedures, and some rodeos publish the draw ahead of time. The rodeo secretary can explain the method used at your event.

The draw is part of why rodeo outcomes can be hard to predict.

How does the draw work for rough stock?

Animals are entered by the stock contractor, and contestants are matched with them by a random process, often a computer program or a physical draw. Some events use a pick-out in which top-ranked contestants choose from a set of animals. The exact method is in the rulebook. Contestants sometimes study the animals ahead of time by watching video of previous performances. Stock contractors may also publish information about their animals.

Contestants usually learn their draw shortly before the event.

• Random draw: animals assigned by chance.
• Pick-out: some contestants choose from available animals.
• Re-ride draw: a new animal is assigned if a re-ride is granted.
• Published draw: the order is posted by the secretary.

Why does the animal matter so much?

Judges score the animal as well as the rider, so a strong animal can raise the ceiling on a ride score. A weaker animal may make a high score hard to reach even for a skilled rider. That is why contestants pay close attention to the draw. A re-ride usually involves a second draw. The rider may have a choice of animals under some rulebooks, and the announcer explains the process.

Good riders try to make the most of any animal. Many say that how they ride a weaker draw matters as much as how they ride a strong one.

How do stock contractors choose animals?

Contractors select animals based on athletic ability, consistency, health and temperament. They watch how animals perform over many seasons and match them to events. Some animals become well known for their performance. Contractors also decide when an animal is rested or retired. Computer draws are common at larger rodeos, and the secretary can show how the result was produced if a contestant asks.

Welfare rules set by sanctioning bodies apply to the animals they cover. Ask the organizer for the standards that apply at your event.

How does the draw work in timed events?

In timed events such as roping and barrel racing, the draw usually sets the order in which contestants run. For roping, a contestant may be matched with a specific animal drawn at random, or may rope whatever animal is released. Rules differ by event. Draws are normally posted for contestants shortly before the rodeo, and some rodeos publish them for fans on the organizer's page.

Running early or late can affect arena conditions, so some contestants think about the draw, even though they cannot control it.

Can the draw be challenged?

Draw procedures are written in rulebooks to keep them fair. If a contestant believes the draw was handled improperly, the rulebook outlines a protest process. Most draws are handled by the rodeo secretary with the contestants or their representatives present or informed. In some timed events, the order of runs is decided by a draw, and contestants may be able to swap positions only under rulebook conditions.

If you are a contestant, learn how your organizer handles the draw before you enter.

What should fans take from this?

Understanding the draw helps explain why favorites sometimes lose and underdogs sometimes win. When the announcer mentions the animal a rider drew, it is useful context for what to expect. If you coach a young contestant, remind them that the draw is not under their control and help them focus on what they can prepare.

Enjoy the performance for what it is: a combination of preparation, skill and chance.

• Ask whether the draw is published.
• Learn how re-rides are drawn.
• Remember the draw is random.
• Focus on preparation.

Last reviewed: November 12, 2026. Written by the County Fair & Rodeo Guide Editorial Team. See our editorial policy.