SHW520. ROPING EVENTS. The purpose of an AQHA roping class is to provide an opportunity for the horse to demonstrate and be judged on its natural talent and ability, its willingness to perform, and the level of training that makes it suitable for competitive timed roping events outside the AQHA arena. The rope horse will be evaluated through a series of individually judged maneuvers that when combined result in a score that most accurately exemplifies that rope horse's ability to allow its rider to catch and handle a calf and/or steer most efficiently and effectively.
SHW520.1 Horses must start from the roping box.
SHW520.2 Tie down roping and heading horses only (whether being judged or not) in dally team roping must start from behind a barrier (an electronic barrier is acceptable).
SHW520.3 Only the horse's performance, including manners behind the barrier and at all other times, is to be judged.
SHW520.4 The contestant shall not attempt to rope the animal until the barrier flag has been dropped. Any attempt by a contestant to position his horse behind the barrier enabling the contestant to rope the animal without attempting to leave the box shall be disqualified.
SHW520.5 Breaking the barrier, or any unnecessary whipping, jerking reins, talking or any noise making, slapping, jerking rope or any unnecessary action to induce the horse to perform better, will be considered a fault and scored accordingly.
SHW520.6 Participation in jackpots paid on time in roping events must be at the contestant's option.
SHW520.7 In all roping events a run must be completed within a one-minute time limit.
SHW520.8 All heading and heeling cattle shall be protected by horn wraps.