How to Start to Rope a Calf

Calf-roping is a fast, exciting sport that tests the speed, timing and and precision of the rider. Though the goal of the sport is to end up off the horse with the calf properly tied, how a rider gets ready to make that happen is just as important as the end result. As soon as the rider is on his horse, the sport begins and there's work to do to make sure the calf is roped safely and correctly.

Things You'll Need

  • Horse with western riding tack
  • Western riding attire
  • Lariat
  • Calf
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Instructions

    • 1

      Sit securely on the horse. Your heels should be down, the ball of your foot should rest on the stirrup and your legs should grip the sides of your horse. Hold the lariat in your dominant hand and the reins in your other hand. Make sure you have a firm grip on both and you're secure in the seat.

    • 2

      Let the calf get a head start. Horses are much faster than small calves, so the calf will need to be about 30 feet ahead of you before you get into position.

    • 3

      Bring your horse into a gallop as fast as possible and ride up just behind and to the side of the calf. Slow the horse down so you're just a few feet away from the calf and are moving at the same pace so you can easily follow the calf.

    • 4

      Spin your lariat above your head in a counter-clockwise motion. Make sure the loop is open and you have a secure hold on the rope.

    • 5

      Aim the lariat at a point just in front of the calf's head. If you aim for the head, the calf will travel while the lariat is in the air and you'll undershoot it.