The Kids Taking the Bull by the Horns

Every spring Ontario's RAM Rodeo Tour sponsors their Build A Cowboy training camp for one of the toughest sports - bull riding.

On the 6th May 2017, Canadian photographer Norm Betts witnessed a dozen aspiring junior bull riders take lessons in rodeo sport.

He said: “It's been held every spring for the past three years to give those who want to try riding bulls in the summer's rodeos, and to be taught the safest ways to rodeo.

"They are taught how the equipment works, how to tie your hand into the bull rope, what happens in the chute.

“And once you're thrown off the bull how to run like hell for the fences to get out of his way!”

Those taking part in the dangerous American tradition must stay atop the bucking bull for eight seconds to count as a qualified ride.

The rider tightly fastens one hand to the bull with a long braided rope. It is a risky sport and has been called "the most dangerous eight seconds in sports."

No mechanical bulls are found here, as three veteran bull riders coach the students through a number of real bull rides over the two days.

The 73-year-old photographer said: “They teach the children all the aspects of the sport, the equipment, how to dismount after your eight seconds are up, how to tie your hand into the bull rope, which way to throw your weight, and safety procedures, especially in the chutes.”

Although not directly taking part in the show, Norm still had to be careful when photographing the sport.

He said: “If you are on foot in the arena, it’s best to work with a 200mm lens so you don't have to get too close, and never take your eyes off the bull!”