What is one of the disqualifying actions in bull riding?

In bull riding, sharp spurs are considered a disqualifying action because they pose a significant risk of injury to both the bull and the rider. Bull riding is built around safety and fairness; therefore, equipment regulations are strict. Using spurs that are excessively sharp can lead to more severe stress and harm to the animal, which goes against ethical riding practices. Ensuring that spurs are not too sharp is crucial for maintaining a safe environment in the arena and promoting the humane treatment of livestock.

In contrast, riding without a hat or performing tricks do not violate the fundamental rules that govern the sport; they may affect the style or presentation of the ride but do not influence the safety and fairness of the competition. Using scorecards is also typically not relevant in the context of bull riding, as the focus is primarily on the rider's performance and the bull’s behavior rather than a point-scoring system. Hence, sharp spurs are prioritized in regulations to emphasize protection and welfare for all involved in the sport.