Riding the bulls

Deepa Bharath

Byron Morales was “hooked” by a bull around the same time last year.

But this year, the fiesty bull rider from Costa Mesa who once got

gored in the face, is back to the ring protected -- as he says -- by a

leather vest and God.

Morales, 23, was one of several sportsmen who braved the raging bulls

Saturday afternoon in the Livestock Arena at the Orange County Fair.

Cheered on by hundreds of spectators in the bleachers, the riders

lassoed and rode the animals, putting on a dramatic display of

flexibility, balance, coordination and quick reflexes.

To stay on top of the bull, a rider uses a flat-braided rope wrapped

around the barrel of the animal’s chest just behind its front legs. The

rider may use only one hand during their ride. He is judged by his

ability to stay on top of the bull.

Morales knows it’s tough and dangerous. But he says he loves the

thrill and the competition.

“I’ve been doing this since I was 10 years old,” he said. “My father

was a bull rider and a bullfighter. It’s a great sport.”

The audience on Saturday was as riled up as Morales.

“Well, it is exciting,” said Patty Ormiston of Anaheim. “I enjoy it. I

kinda feel sorry for the animals. But I guess I just put my conscience to

sleep when I watch the show.”

Bob Silver of Torrance said he loves rodeos.

“I usually like the rodeos with all animals, not just bulls,” he said.

“But I’m here out of curiosity.

Michaelle Wilkie was showing her 2-year-old son, Eric, the bulls in

the cage.

“Oh, I’m a cowgirl,” she said with a laugh. “I love everything about

it.”

It was Julio Serria’s first time at a live rodeo.

“I’ve only seen it on TV,” said the Pico Rivera resident who brought

along his wife and grandson. “It’s a good attraction for the crowds here

at the fair.”