How many ways can a cowboy be disqualified in bull riding?

In bull riding, a cowboy can be disqualified in multiple ways, which is why the correct answer is four ways. Common reasons for disqualification include:

1. Losing grip on the bull: If the rider falls off or releases the bull before the required time limit, they may be disqualified.

2. Touching the bull or themselves with their free hand: During the ride, if the cowboy touches the bull or their own body with their free hand, it constitutes a disqualification.

3. Failing to make the required eight seconds: Bull riding requires the cowboy to stay on the bull for a minimum of eight seconds. If they do not achieve this, they can be disqualified.

4. Not following the rules of equipment: If a cowboy uses equipment that does not meet safety standards or regulations, they can be disqualified from the event.

Understanding these disqualification criteria is crucial for riders to ensure they follow the rules and avoid penalties during competition. The other choices do not reflect the variety of disqualification reasons in bull riding, which is why they are not correct.