A fantastic event at the Saddle Horse Show and Rodeo that is truly “San Benito” is Figure-8 roping, which is a method for roping cattle originally used by the early California vaquero. The cowboy can rope the animal and give it medicine or treat an ailment out in an open pasture. This tricky move catches the steer over the head and crosses in front of its chest (making the figure eight shape) and then goes around its two front hooves. This catch will slow the steer up and bring it under enough control to treat with medicine.
“It is still used at brandings today,” said Mike O’Connell, who was a scribe for the San Benito Horse Show and Rodeo eliminations. The Figure-8 is a source of pride for local cowboys and it authentically is still done out in the field. “A lot of events have changed in the horse show or rodeo setting. Sorting has changed because it is now a timed event. The great thing about the Figure-8 is that it hasn’t lost the finesse that you see out in the field,” O’Connell said.
There were 45 entrants in the Figure-8 roping eliminations held on Sunday, June 18. The following 10 contestants will be in the roping competition on Friday, June 23, Saturday, June 24 and Sunday, June 25. Each cowboy will throw two loops each day and the winner will have the highest number of points from all three days.
- Shane Higgins
- Mark Carriero
- Jim Prewett
- Scott Spencer
- Blake Cronin
- Mitch Bourdet
- Bill Askew
- Jeff Bourdet
- Pat Abercrombie
- Justin Fields
“Controlling the size loop on your rope, using the ‘honda’ (or place where the loop attaches) with accuracy can make all the difference,” according to Ralph Pavey. “The ‘honda’ location when the loop makes contact is important, usually best if it is high on the animal’s neck near the back of the head.”
The San Benito County Horse Show and Rodeo is one of the few remaining places that this event can still be seen. Cowboys practice for hours to refine the skill and prepare for the competition. Winning is a special achievement for a local cowboy due to the challenge and uniqueness of the event.
You can see Justin Fields demonstrate the technique on a Youtube video.
The challenging move is described in great detail in an article written by Pavey on the El Vaquero website.
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