Steer roping added to Biggest Rodeo

PHILLIPSBURG -- Kansas' Biggest Rodeo in Phillipsburg will host a new event at its 2010 rodeo in August.

Steer roping will be added as the eighth event offered for competition to Pro Rodeo Cowboy Association contestants. The events include bareback riding, saddle bronc riding, tie-down roping, steer wrestling, team roping, barrel racing, bull riding and the newest, steer roping.

Steer roping resembles tie-down roping, but requires the cowboy to catch and control a full-grown steer. The mounted cowboy must catch the steer by roping it around the horns, which are protected by horn wraps and reinforced with rebar. Then he tosses the slack rope over the steer's right hip and rides to the left, bringing the steer to the ground, just as cowboys on the frontier had to bring down full-grown steers that needed medical attention. When the steer is lying on its side and the rope is taut, the rider dismounts and runs to the steer, tying any three of its legs.

This year's rodeo will be Aug. 5 to 7. For more information, visit www.kansas biggestrodeo.com.