The rough riding team has been an integral part of Culver's horsemanship program since it began in 1897. Rough riding is the art of performing gymnastic movements on horseback. Today, rough riding is used to increase the confidence and skill levels in novice riders.

Rough riding requires an expert horseman with gymnastic skills and nerves of steel. Repeated drills and instruction make the danger factor secondary to performing eight difficult stunts on the moving horse.

Rough riding is open to all girls in Horsemanship and the Black Horse Troop.