TEAM CATTLE PENNING

It’s been described as wild, challenging and even chaotic, yet team cattle penning is the fastest growing team sport for horse enthusiasts.  A “cowy” pony, good riding skills and some great friends are an excellent start to enjoying this sport.  But remember, there are 36 factors in play:  30 head of cattle, three head of horses, and you and your two buddies.

Thirty cattle, three of each numbered 0 through 9, mingle at the far end of the arena. At the other end is a holding pen with a small opening facing away from the herd.  Next to the pen you and your two teammates sit on horseback ….waiting. 

You hardly realize you’re breathing, anticipating the “Flags Up” command from the announcer.   And as you and your teammates race across the time line, for the far end of the arena, you listen for your number: “Your number is 5, cattle number 5. 

Trying to peel, sort or otherwise dissect three similar numbered cattle out of a herd of thirty may sound easy, it is hardly the case.  Not only are there rules of conduct governing fair play and protection of the cattle, cattle can be unpredictable and the clock is ticking.  Each team has a maximum of 1 minute before the horn sounds, ending the run.   The fastest team, barring penalties wins!!!