| For those who are new to calf roping, the event | | | | athletes. They are expected to work all on their |
| goes like this: A cowboy on horseback starts in | | | | own once the rider springs from their back. The |
| the corner of the roping box watching the calf in | | | | horse's job is to keep the rope tight to discourage |
| the chute. The calf is released and the time starts | | | | the calf from getting up and making it easier for |
| as the calf and the cowboy run down the arena. | | | | the cowboy to tie. It is not uncommon to see a |
| The cowboy ropes the calf, dismounts his horse, | | | | horse backpedalling as fast as it can. The horse |
| picks up the calf, puts him on the ground, and | | | | then stands quietly while the six seconds go by. |
| then ties any three of the calf's legs together, | | | | Because they have such a demanding job, it is |
| usually 2 back legs and a front. The time ends | | | | important for them to be well protected. Splint |
| when the cowboy's hands are thrown in the air. | | | | boots, bell boots, and skid boots are all need to |
| Keep in mind, all of this is usually done in 11 | | | | protect the calf roping horse's legs. |
| seconds. Before the time can be official, the | | | | Calf ropers and their horses require the most |
| cowboy must go and mount his horse, and wait 6 | | | | rodeo equipment in any event. In addition to the |
| seconds. If the calf doesn't get up in 6 seconds, | | | | bridle, saddle and leg gear, they also need a neck |
| the calf roper gets a time. If the calf does get up | | | | rope, jerk line, and calf string. It is challenging to |
| within 6 seconds, the cowboy is disqualified. | | | | keep everything from getting all tied up but |
| Calf roping horses are well trained and amazing | | | | comes more easily with practice. |