How to Become a Team Roper

Team roping is one of the most exciting competitions at a rodeo. The event features two riders and two horses, both roping one calf. One rider ropes the calf's head and the other rider ropes the calf's rear legs. This is when the clock stops. To learn how to become a team roper follow these steps.

Instructions

1. Attend a local team roping event to watch what goes on. See what is required of the team as they begin, execute and finish the event.

2. Watch roping videos and other ropers to learn how to correctly throw a rope around a calf. There are three ways for a header to rope a calf for team roping: around the neck, around one horn and the head or around both horns. The only acceptable way for a heeler to rope a calf is around both back legs.

3. Find a good roping horse. A horse can make or break your effort in team roping. The horse should be trained for team roping and know what to do when in the arena.

4. Decide if you want to be a header or a heeler. You may do both and switch partners, but stick to one position if you want to become really good at the skill.

5. Get a partner after deciding what position you want in the team. Look for someone who is dedicated, has good roping skills and a good horse. You should get along well with this person as traveling to rodeos can be tiring.

6. Join a team roping club and participate in club rodeos. This is a great way to get experience in team roping and meet other team ropers. You may need to have someone in mind for a back-up partner in case your team member can't make a rodeo.