Check out the rules of the Team Roping event on the 7MBoots website

Hello cowboys and cowgirls passionate about rodeo! Today, you're going to learn more about Team Roping. Are you ready to discover what this fantastic event involves on the 7MBoots site? Above all, it is essential to highlight that Team Roping (also known as Team Tie) begins before the competitors enter the arena. This is because the primary goal of the event is to rope the heads of the steer (weighing approximately 200kg) in the shortest possible time. Typically, the challenges take place in a sandy arena about 90m long and 40m wide. For this, the steers pass through a narrow corridor until they reach the gate.

Moreover, the roper on the left side of the gate is called the header, as it is his task to rope the head of the animal. The competitor on the right side is known as the heeler, as he is responsible for roping the back legs.

Learn more about Team Roping

First, there are numerous rules for conducting the events. One of them stipulates that the horses must stand face to face before the start, and no animal can leave before the steer; otherwise, the team suffers a penalty.

Usually, the Quarter Horse is a crucial element of the challenge. After the barrier opens, the steer bolts out, and the header is the first to follow behind the animal. Once the steer is caught by the horns, it’s time for the heeler to take action.

If the header jumps the start, the team will have 10 seconds added to their final time. The heeler, if he only ropes one leg of the steer, will have 5 seconds added as a penalty. In other words, competitors need to be agile and well-trained if they want to be champions. Once the steer is roped, the judge stops the timer and releases the animal to trot until the end of the arena.

Typically, a successful team takes between 4 to 7 minutes to complete the event. However, at lower levels, the activity may take longer.

Origin of Team Roping

Initially, Team Roping originated on American ranches due to the cowboys' need to capture adult animals.

Equipment Used

Rope: Also known as the “American Lasso,” it can be made of polyester and nylon.

Horns Protector: Safety equipment used on animals to prevent rope burns.

Gloves: Safety gear used by the heels to prevent burns on the hands. Saddles;

Skid Boot: To ensure the protection of horses against injuries.

How to Practice

Above all, practicing Team Roping requires prior training with a specialist. This training is done on dummies, and from there, it is possible to learn the basic principles of the activity, such as positioning and posture.

To take part in the Double Roping course, you need to look for the nearest training center in your region.

So, cowboys and cowgirls, did you enjoy learning a bit more about Team Roping? Stay tuned on the 7MBoots site; there’s a lot of great stuff coming up!