What is Calf Roping?

Competitor must rope the calf, dismount, throw the calf by hand, and cross and tie 3 legs.   The horse and contestant must start behind a mechanical/electronic barrier giving the calf a fair head start.

Calf Roping Basics

Roping the calf is catch as catch can. Meaning the rope must be in contact with the calf when the contestant touches him. Once the roper has made contact with the calf and the rope is also in contact with the calf, this rule has been satisfied.  The calf must remain in control of the roper and cannot be chased down.  A no time will be issued if the calf gains his freedom at any point during the contest.Throwing the calf by hand consists of the calf standing upright on at least 3 legs or the calf can be helped up and must have no less than 3 legs dangling straight down given the opportunity to stand. A calf is considered thrown by hand if the roper has ‘Hands On’ the calf before the calf falls.A tie is considered legal when at least 3 legs are crossed, there is a wrap around no less than 3 legs and a Half Hitch or Hooey. If the tie comes loose or 3 legs do not remain crossed before the judge rules a complete run, a no time will be awarded.