What does 'covering' mean in rough stock events?

In rough stock events, 'covering' refers specifically to the requirement for a rider to stay on the animal for a minimum duration to qualify their ride. The correct interpretation is that covering means staying on for at least 8 seconds. This duration is standard in events such as bull riding or bronc riding, where the rider aims to maintain balance and control while the animal performs various movements. Successfully managing this time not only demonstrates skill but is also crucial for scoring in competitions. This period is critical for earning points, as a ride is not considered complete without meeting this minimum time criteria.