roping

One of the world’s most famous cowboys took time to chat with COWGIRL about his passion for roping, the pressure to win, and his relentless climb to the top of the rodeo record books. COWGIRL: COWGIRL magazine is about having a passion for life, for getting up in the morning and being excited about what you’re going to...

The four riders burst across the arena, lariats flying, in pursuit of the lone steer. One deftly “heads” the steer, looping a noose around the critter’s horns, and another then “heels” the hapless beast, shooting a lightning-fast loop under one of the animal’s hind feet, then drawing it taut. With the steer caught betwixt and...

You’ve purchased your first horse, a different horse, or want to try a new style of riding. Do you need a new saddle? Maybe. Saddles must fit both you and your horse, and be appropriate for the riding you plan to do. Think of it as above and below. Above, the seat size and contour,...

When the Brannaman ProAm  Vaquero Roping event rolls around each October in Santa Ynez, California, there’s a lot to take in: horses, celebrities, flashy gear, cool western stuff and nonstop action. But amidst the bustle there’s a quartet of cowgirls who draw the eye. They are everywhere at once, helping behind the scenes, answering questions,...

In the frontier west of a young United States, cowboys roamed the vast expanses of land as they tended cattle on the open prairie. After months out on the range, the cowboys returned to their ranches, sometimes partaking in friendly bucking horse competitions with other cowboys in the area. On September 23, 1897, organizers harnessed...

PC: Susie Blackmon Off the track thoroughbreds (OTTB) frequently start new careers once their racing days are over. The majority of them compete in jumping and eventing; however, these athletic horses are beginning to appear in the western world too. Gone are the days where everyone owns a Quarter Horse. Thoroughbreds are successfully competing in...

As western show horses become ever more specialized, a growing counter-culture of authentic cowboy-inspired competitions are gaining momentum. Instead of a laser-like focus on taking home the trophy or buckle in a specific equine class or event, many cowgirls are challenging themselves—and their horses—in comprehensive competitions inspired by the reality of ranch work. Versatility Ranch...

The All-Girl Challenge at the BFI in Reno, NV is one of the toughest ladies-only ropings in the nation! It starts with the traditional enter-twice, four-round team roping and ends with two lucky ladies coming out on top! This year, Jackie Crawford and Annette Stahl brought home the money.   The first team shown in...