In the video “Tying 101,” World Champion tie-down roper Shad Mayfield offers a comprehensive guide to the fundamental techniques of tying a calf in tie-down roping.
“Tying a calf is like muscle memory. It is no different than learning how to ride a bike. Once you learn how to ride a bike, it just comes natural.”
Slow Down and Go Through the Basics
Mayfield learned from Monty Lewis the importance of slowing down and practicing fundamentals daily. The first step is to check your position on the calf, ensuring control. Next, focus on the front leg, string it, step to grab the hind legs, wrap, and finish with a secure hooey. Watch here.
“Right here I have to look at the leg, string a leg, step, cross the legs and then after that it’s just two wraps and a hooey.”
It’s All About Positioning on the Calf
Every calf roper is different when it comes to position. Being comfortable in the right position is the key to efficiency. Shad sits down on the calf, but he advises kids to have both knees on the calf to have the strength to keep up in case the horse or calf moves out of position. Watch here.
“You have to have a tight grip on your left arm. Your left arm is what controls everything.”
One Wrap or Two?
It’s up to you if you wrap once or twice. Watch as Mayfield goes more in-depth about using one wrap or two when you are wrapping. Watch here.
“If your first wrap is good, tight around all the legs, your hooey will come easy.”
Watch here.
The Hooey
The hooey is the final piece to a great tie. After wrapping all three legs, either once or twice, the hooey goes between the front leg and the two hind legs, take it through the loop and pull it tight. Watch here.
“Everyone has their own style, but it’s the same thing. Two wraps and a hooey.”
More Videos From Shad Mayfield on Roping.com
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