Grand Canyon Pro Rodeo Association

Association Rules

TABLE OF CONTENTS

General Statements
Sanction Rules
Stock Contractors
Rodeo Secretaries
Rodeo Judges
Timers
General Rules / All Around
Rodeo Entry
Draw Out & Turn Out Rules
Payoff
General Judging Rules
Riding Event Rules & Judging Guidelines
Timed Event Rules & Judging Guidelines
Rules Not Addressed
Additional Year End Award Guidelines

Grand Canyon Pro Rodeo Association Rules

General Statements [Contents]

The GCPRA provides its own association rules for rodeo contestants and requires rodeo management adhere to them. The Board of Directors shall approve any exceptions.
Discrimination of any kind against any association member will not be permitted.

Sanction Rules [Contents]

All rodeos submitted for sanctioning are subject to approval by the Board of Directors.
Sanction Fees – The GCPRA shall take a fee set by the Board of Directors which shall not exceed six (6) percent of the total purse before any added money of each member rodeo which amount shall be used to defray Association expenses.
All GCPRA sanctioned rodeos shall have a minimum per event added money in the eight standard events. Said amount shall be set annually by the Board of Directors,
The eight standard events for GCPRA rodeos are Bareback Riding, Saddle Bronc Riding, Steer Wrestling, Calf Roping, Barrel Racing, Breakaway Roping, Bull Riding, and Team Roping. Additional events may be allowed with Board approval.
All rodeo committees must have proof of event liability insurance in a minimum amount of $1,000,000, which shall name GCPRA, and stock contractor of event as additional insured. Certificate of insurance shall be filed with GCPRA office a minimum of thirty (30) days prior to rodeo event.
No GCPRA sanctioned rodeos will have limited entries, except for the GCPRA Finals Rodeo.
All GCPRA sanctioned rodeos must use the online Rodeo System, and rodeo secretary(s) provided by GCPRA unless otherwise approved by Board of Directors. In the event that a rodeo committee uses a non-approved Rodeo Secretary, the GCPRA retains the right to require that secretary to turn in books and moneys to State Secretary before any payout is done. (So payouts will be mailed out, not paid out at rodeo)
Secure panels must be provided by rodeo committee and set across timed event boxes during rough stock events, and barrel racing.
Any contestant entered in a GCPRA rodeo, together with a companion showing valid companions pass, shall be admitted free of charge to all performances and slack unless other arrangements have been made with the Board of Directors.
Entry fees for each event will be set annually by Board of Directors.
Rodeos will start at time designated on rodeo sanction form.
At all GCPRA sanctioned events, there must be an ambulance and/or equipped paramedic on the rodeo grounds at all times during performances and slack. If only a paramedic will be available, an ambulance must be available within a reasonable time, if called.

Stock Contractors [Contents]

Stock contractors must meet criteria established by the Board of Directors and be approved by the Board of Directors to be a GCPRA stock contractor.
Any action by contractor breaking the rules of the GCPRA will be considered grounds for the Board of Directors to take action.
All bucking stock must be proven.
Any stock contractor that does not bring the correct number of stock, or stock not conforming to GCPRA rules, or stock blackballed by the GCPRA, will be fined $25 per head. The fine amount will be withheld from the stock fees at said rodeo. Amount of timed event cattle at approved rodeos shall be set as
one-third the total number of contestants in an event, plus 2 unless other arrangements are made between stock contractor and event director.
Stock contractors are responsible for all help at the chutes, roping box, and to cut and load animals to avoid delay of the rodeo and abuse of the stock unless other arrangements have been made and approved by the Board of Directors. Stock Contractor will provide a well-broke flagging horse for judge.
All fines against a stock contractor must be paid before he will be approved to put on another GCPRA rodeo.
All rodeo stock must be tagged or branded. These markings must be a permanent nature that cannot be removed by water. The stock contractor will be fined $25 for each head of stock that is not properly marked.
Stock contractor for each rodeo shall be responsible for providing adequate barrier equipment. GCPRA may provide its own barrier equipment to be used in lieu of stock contractors.
Stock contractor of record for a rodeo is responsible for livestock furnished by stock subcontractors.
Rodeo stock must not be used for jackpots or any other rodeo during the course of a GCPRA rodeo.
Event directors or judges at a rodeo shall have the option to declare any animal unfit or unsatisfactory.
Stock may be placed on the blackball list after review and vote by the Board of Directors at a regularly scheduled board meeting. Stock contractor will be notified of such action and may appeal the decision at a Board meeting. Any stock placed on the blackball list will not be allowed to be used at a sanctioned rodeo.
Definition of unsatisfactory animals in the timed events:
An animal that: (1) is considered by the Event Director/Judge to be unhealthy or not suitable for competition, (2) has in the past caused safety concerns for a contestant or his horse, (3) would cause an uneven competition if used, (4) has in the past demonstrated a disposition to act in a manner which may cause bylaw or rule violation or humane problems if used, or (5) if use of such animal would result in a GCPRA rule violation.
No stock should be confined in vehicles without being unloaded, properly fed and watered. When animals are carried in conveyances in which they do have proper food, water, space and opportunity to rest, the provision for unloading shall not apply.
All stock must be off all feed and water a minimum of three (3) hours prior to a scheduled slack or performance in which they will be used. When stock is hayed in the arena, loose hay will be removed from the arena before the beginning of the performance to the satisfaction of the judges. This is the stock contractor’s responsibility. Stock cannot be hayed or grained with ten (10) feet of the barrel stakes.
GCPRA stock contractors cannot bid on existing rodeo’s, unless a rodeo committee requests a new stock contractor or stock contractor list. Requests must be made in writing to the GCPRA board. The committee can then open the rodeo up to bid to GCPRA approved stock contractors.
To become a GCPRA stock contractor, a contractor must bring one new full (11 standard events) rodeo and maintain it for a minimum of 2 years to become an approved GCPRA stock contractor.
In order for a stock contractor to qualify for the Finals he/she must produce and maintain a minimum of two rodeo’s a year. If stock contractor fails to meet two rodeo’s a year his/her stock will not be allowed to be nominated to go to Finals.
Stock selected for Finals must buck in at a minimum of two GCPRA lead rodeo’s to be selected to compete in the finals. No unproven stock can be brought to the Finals.
The top 15 Rough Stock contestants in each event will vote for the stock for the Finals. Guidelines for approved GCPRA Finals Stock will be set by the GCPRA Board of Directors.
All subcontractors must purchase a subcontracting card (Working Card), for their stock can be selected to compete at Finals..

Rodeo Entry System

All Rodeo Entries will be taken through the online entry system on www.gcpra.net
Any GCPRA Member will not enter through Rodeo Committees Local Entries, or they will forfeit their rodeo count and moneys won at said rodeo
The State Secretary will manage entries through this system

Rodeo Secretaries [Contents]

Stock contractors are not responsible to furnish a secretary at a sanctioned rodeo. The GCPRA will furnish a rodeo secretary for accepting entries, collecting moneys and overseeing payoff. The GCPRA shall be responsible for the secretary’s actions and is liable for secretary’s mistakes or discrepancies in the payoff or in the handling of entry fees. However, in the event of a documented overpay, contestant is required to refund amount of overpayment to the GCPRA office upon notification. Failure to return
amount of overpayment will result in contestant being placed on fine list for said amount and contestant would not be allowed to enter rodeos until restitution is made.
Rodeo secretaries will be hired as contract help by the Association Secretary on a per rodeo basis.
Rodeo secretaries will be available at least two (2) hours prior to each performance and/or slack of a rodeo.
Rodeo secretary will compile and complete all rodeo worksheets supplied by GCPRA office and will submit balanced books, together with rodeo standings to GCPRA office no later than five (5) days following completion of last performance of a rodeo. Secretary will also submit all timers and draw sheets to the GCPRA office. Rodeo secretary will be
responsible to the GCPRA for all errors and/or under- or overpayments made in payoffs or rodeo records.
No one except GCPRA rodeo secretary or individual designated by Board in case of an emergency shall be allowed to accept rodeo entries. Association Secretary may not serve as rodeo secretary, except in case of emergency.
Rodeo secretaries shall send all uncollected prize money to the association office with other rodeo records within time specified unless a contestant
has otherwise specified where they want moneys sent.
Rodeo Secretary will receive an amount set by the Board of Directors for each paid entry at all association rodeos.
The Rodeo Secretary fee will be disbursed by check to the Rodeo Secretary by the GCPRA Association office after the books have been verified, unless other arrangements have been made with office.

Rodeo Judges [Contents]

The Board of Directors or a Judging Coordinator appointed by the Board of Directors will assign judges to each rodeo. Requests by a rodeo committee for specific individuals will be considered whenever possible or if a specific individual is not acceptable, another will be assigned whenever possible. Final decisions will be made by the Board of Directors or the judging coordinator if one has been appointed. Judging fees will be set by the Board of Directors. The stock contractor will be responsible for the payment of these fees.
Judges must hold a current GCPRA working card or membership card.
Judges for the GCPRA Finals Rodeo will be appointed by the GCPRA Board of Directors.
All judges must be approved by the Board of Directors and attend any required judging seminars.

Timers [Contents]

The GCPRA requires two experienced and qualified timers who must read and sign the Timers Guidelines provided by the rodeo secretary.
Times from the two watches will be AVERAGED and rounded down to the lowest for official time in all timed events. Time will be recorded in tenths of a second unless stated otherwise in individual event rules. Barrel Racing will be timed to the hundredths.
The same two timers must be used throughout the whole rodeo, including slack, unless found incompetent by the judge or rodeo secretary. If a timer or timers are deemed not competent by either the judge or rodeo secretary, upon notification stock contractor must provide a suitable replacement by the next performance or sooner if possible.

General Rules [Contents]

Year-end awards will be decided by a point system based on money won. In all events at enter twice rodeos- if a contestant enters a rodeo twice and places twice only the highest amount of money won will count towards All- Around standings in each event. Money will be awarded following Men’s & Women’s All-Around rules. Both places money will count towards Year End Event Standings.
A member must compete in at least 6 rodeos or 25% of the total rodeos lead sanctioned by GCPRA in the event for the subject year, whichever is greater, to qualify for the year end finals or year end awards. Only rodeos that you attended after becoming a member, count towards the minimum rodeo qualification. If there are open positions for the finals, after going through all members who qualify for the finals on money won AND minimum rodeo requirement, the positions still open may be filled with members who did not qualify with money won but do meet the minimum rodeo requirement in the event throughout the year. These contestants will not be eligible for year end awards in said event, but are eligible for finals awards and moneys in said event.
The contestants will enter the GCPRA Finals through the online entry system. After it is determined there are not more qualified contestants who entered the finals, the positions will be drawn from the contestants who attended and entered the event in enough rodeos, but did not win money in that event.
Jackets and Finals awards go to Finals Contestants only. Exception: If contestant has qualified for Finals and must “Doctor or Vet” release out of the Finals Rodeo.
GCPRA Finals Rodeo Contestant Turn Out- A contestant MUST compete in respective events, all go-rounds to be eligible for Year End awards in all events. If a contestant turns out in any event after the start of the Finals Rodeo, he/she will forfeit all Year End awards in all events. If a contestant is injured at the Finals Rodeo he/she may get a Medical Release, or a Visible Release by the Finals Judge(s) and receive Year End awards. No Vet Releases will be accepted. If a contestant is entered in the Finals and turns out, he/she will be required to pay finals fees and be put on fines list until paid. Contestants will be able to medical/vet release out, contestant is required to provide medical or vet release to the GCPRA office before the Finals starts – otherwise entry fees will be due. If said contestant turns out and an alternate is found to fill the position, he/she will not be required to pay fees but will be fined $50.
All Around Qualifications- Contestants must have won money ($500 for Men’s events, $300 for Women’s events) and competed at least 6 lead sanctioned GCPRA Rodeos, or 25% of GCPRA lead sanctioned rodeos, whichever is greater, in each particular event for point/moneys to count towards Year End All Around Standings.
Men’s All Around- will be figured from OPEN EVENTS ONLY, with at least $500 won in each qualifying event before it will count for Year End All Around Standings.
Women’s All Around- will be figured from OPEN & INCENTIVE EVENTS, with at least $300 won in each qualifying event before it will count for Year End All Around Standings.
The contestants winning the most money in at least two (2) events under the above guidelines will be awarded Year End All Around awards. Any points/moneys earned at a rodeo that is not sanctioned with all 8 events will not count as All Around point/moneys for Year End awards. Additionally, for team ropers, only points/moneys for highest placing will be counted towards All Around standings.
All GCPRA members shall read and know the Rules and By-Laws of this Association. Failure to know the rules will not be accepted as an excuse.
The GCPRA will not accept checks for entry fees for any rodeos, including the Finals rodeo.
Deliberate abuse in any fashion of the rodeo stock or of any animal will not be tolerated. This includes any specialty acts or clown performances. The Board of Directors may fine any individual, including stock contractor, guilty of mistreatment of livestock. Hotshots are not to be used inside the arena.
Person will be subject to fine and/or removal from the premises. At the discretion of the judges, contestant will be fined $50.00 for first offense; upon second offense, contestant must appear before the board of directors before competing at any more GCPRA rodeos and will be subject to additional fines determined by the Board of Directors.
The GCPRA will provide discounted memberships to all contestants who are under the age of 18. Discounted membership fees will be set by the Board of Directors.
Judges and steer wrestling hazers must have a current GCPRA membership or working card. Working card fees will be set by the Board of Directors. Hazers who also compete in an event will not be eligible for the discounted working card membership.
All timers, pickup men, clowns, announcers, and bullfighters are hired and paid by stock contractor and are the responsibility of the stock contractor. The GCPRA will not interfere unless in the view of the Board of Directors an individual does not properly perform his/her duties or violates the rules of the GCPRA. In such a case, the Board will notify the stock contractor of the offense and stock contractor will meet with the Board of Directors at the next regularly scheduled board meeting regarding complaint. Stock contractor agrees to abide by decision
of Board regarding individual.
Entry fees shall be determined by the Board of Directors and will bet set out in publication of rodeo event information.
Included in each entry fee is a finals fee, central entry/rodeo secretary fee, stock fee and GCPRA sanction fee.
Participation in the grand entry is mandatory for all contestants with a horse available.
No small animals or pets are allowed in arena where restraint is necessary, or where subject to injury or attack by another animal.
Livestock to be removed from arena after completion of ride/run.
Use of fireworks to frighten animals prohibited.
Any animal that becomes excessively excited so that it gets down in the chute repeatedly, or tries repeatedly to jump out of chute, or any way appears to be in danger of injuring itself, should be released immediately.
Use of electronic and/or remotely controlled devices on animals, whether in or out of the arena will not be allowed. During all competition, the arena must
remain clear as to not interfere with a contestant’s opportunity to compete.
No persons shall be allowed in arena during a rodeo performance or slack unless entered in an event or unless he/she has obtained permission from authorized rodeo personnel and has signed a release of liability.
There shall be no impeding of runs or rides. Persons in violation of this rule are subject to fines by the rodeo judges and/or GCPRA Board of Directors. Fines are as follows:

st

1 offense - $50 to $100 fine at judge/Board discretion.

nd

2 offense - $200 to $250 fine and/or disqualification from rodeo
where rule infraction occurs at judge/Board discretion.

rd

3 offense - $250+ fine, disqualification from rodeo where rule
infraction occurs and/or suspension from future GCPRA rodeos (to be determined by Board of Directors).
Photographers must purchase a Working Membership in order to work GCPRA rodeo’s. The GCPRA board of directors will vote on approved photographers to work the finals.
In the case that there are two individual rodeo’s in one weekend, contestants can no longer request the performance for both days. If the second performance is not filled, there will be a waiting list and it will be filled on a first come, first serve basis. The remaining requests will be placed in slack.

Rodeo Entry [Contents]

The rodeo entries will be taken online the Wednesday through Friday night at 9pm approximately 10 days before the rodeo weekend. (i.e.- If the rodeo is on the 11th-12th of a month, the entries will be open on the 1st and close on the 3rd of the month). If there is a special where entries will not be as stated, it will be advertised in advance.
When entering a rodeo, contestants will use the online etnry system, at gcpra.net. They will be required to have their membership number or a permit number (which means that they must purchase either membership or permit prior to entry). There will be a 3 buddy maximum, and all buddies must also have a membership number or permit number.
Local entries are encouraged by the GCPRA. Local entries are the responsibility of rodeo committee, and may be opened and closed at least 24 hours prior to the GCPRA books opening. Any contractor or committee allowing entries after the GCPRA Entry closing date, may be assessed a penalty and/or fine by the GCPRA unless other arrangements have been made with the Board.
Buddying will be allowed in groups no larger than 3. There will by NO cross event buddying, except for husbands/wives, and immediate family (i.e- children).
GCPRA will not cash checks and all entry fees are to be paid in cash. GCPRA will accept checks for membership dues only.
Entry fees are due prior to competing. Any contestant who fails to pay his/her fees will be fined $50.00 for first offense, $100 for second offense and upon third offense will be ineligible to complete for remainder of current rodeo season. Contestant will be considered ineligible until all unpaid entry fees and fines have been paid.
A GCPRA member cannot enter a rodeo through local entry.
All local entries at any GCPRA sanctioned rodeo will be included in the payoff of that rodeo and subject to same entry fees and deductions from entry fees as a GCPRA member.
In the case that there are two individual rodeo’s in one weekend, contestants can only request the performance in one of the two days. If the second performance is not filled there will be a waiting list and it will be filled on a first come first serve basis. The remaining requests will then be placed into slack.
A trade deadline has been put into place for the Monday before each rodeo at 5pm.
Late entries are accepted until 5:00pm on the day following entries for a fee of $25.

Draw Out & Turn Out Rules [Contents]

Members entered in a GCPRA rodeo (by self or another person) who is unable to attend must make notification to the rodeo secretary via text or call or email, a minimum of two (2) hours prior to start of rodeo performance. The phone number and email will have ability to take messages with time and date to verify the notification. Even with notified turn outs, members will be responsible for their entry fees, but any fine will be waived. If notification is not made and contestant is entered in a
performance, the member will pay entry fee and a $25.00 fine. If a turnout occurs during a slack, the fine will be waived but the entry fee must be paid. Draw outs without a medical excuse require that entry fees be paid.
In the event of a medical emergency, members must notify by phone as noted above for turnouts and must specify “medical” or notify rodeo secretary before stock is turned out. A doctor or vet release must be postmarked to the GCPRA secretary within 5 days after the final performance of the last rodeo the contestant doctor or vet released out of. Contestant then cannot compete for 5 days after the final performance of the rodeo the contestant doctored or vetted out of. (i. e.- - 4th of July rodeos - - If entered in more than one rodeo, you cannot vet or doctor release one without vet or doctor releasing all rodeos.) A Member may only be allowed 2 Medical/Vet Releases for a Season.The member with a medical release will not be liable for fees and a fine will not be imposed unless written release is not received by office within 5-day period. If a contestant fails to get the release into the office within the 5 day period, they will be assessed a fine of $25 plus owe their entry fees. Entry fees for this member will not be added to the jackpot.
A contestant can doctor or vet release performance one event and still compete in another event.
Any member refusing to pay fees and/or fines will be put on the suspended list and will not be allowed to enter any GCPRA rodeos. All moneys accumulated toward the year-end awards and the finals rodeo will be withdrawn until restitution is made.
Should a member end the rodeo year on the suspended list, their violation will be carried to the following year and he/she will not be allowed to purchase a card until violations are paid.
The medical emergency release applies to personal disability and not to that of any livestock. Vets release, at the discretion of the board, will apply to livestock.
A maximum of 2 doctor or vet releases will be allowed each year for any individual member.
Any non-member not complying with draw out or turnout rules will be
fined $25.00 to be paid at next GCPRA rodeo entered. Any non- member who has been turned out and fined may not enter another GCPRA event as a non- member. In order to enter any further GCPRA sanctioned events they must pay their fine and purchase a GCPRA card. Vet releases apply to all timed events.
A contestant is considered officially entered in a rodeo at the close of rodeo entry books for that rodeo and will be responsible for turnout fees and/or fines if he/she draws out any time after rodeo entry books close.

Pay-Off [Contents]

Immediately after completion of rodeo, secretary shall make payment to winning contestants in each event.
Added money and entry fees are to be totaled and paid as follows:
Amounts are calculated as total money to be paid out as winnings and include any added money.
Bareback, Saddle Bronc, Bull Riding, Breakaway, Open Tie Down, Steer Wrestling, Barrel Racing Payoff
$0 to $600 2 moneys – 60%, 40%
$601 to 800 3 moneys – 50%, 30%, 20%
$801 to $1500 4 moneys – 40%, 30%, 20%, 10%
$1501 to 2500 5 moneys – 34%, 27%, 20%, 13%, 6%
$2501 to 3500 6 moneys – 29%, 24%, 19%, 14%, 9%, 5%
$3501 to 8000 8 moneys --27% 22% 18% 13% 10% 5% 3% 2%
$8001 & Over 10 moneys- 21%, 19%, 16%, 14%, 11%, 8%, 5%, 3%, 2%, 1%
17% of the incentive calf roping fees are added to the open payoff.
Open Team Roping Payoff
$0 to $800 1 moneys- 100%
$801 to $1500 2 moneys- 60%, 40%
$1501 to $3000 3 moneys- 50%, 30%, 20%
$3001 to $5000 4 moneys- 40%, 30%, 20%, 10%
$5001 to $7500 5 moneys- 30%, 25%, 20%, 15%, 10%
$7501 to 16000 6 moneys- 29%, 24%, 19%, 14%, 9%, 5%
$16001 & Over 8 moneys- 23%, 20%, 17%, 14%, 11%, 8%, 5%, 2%
17% of the incentive team roping fees are added to the open team roping payoff.
Inc. Tie Down Payoff
$0 to $350 2 moneys – 60%, 40%
$351 to $650 3 moneys – 44%, 33%, 23%
$651 to $1100 4 moneys – 40%, 30%, 20%, 10%
$1101 to $1700 5 moneys- 30%, 25%, 20%, 15%, 10%
$1701-$3000 6 moneys- 29%, 24%, 19%, 14%, 9%, 5%
$3001 & Over 8 moneys- 27%, 22%, 18%, 13%, 10%, 5%, 3%, 2%
17% of the incentive calf roping fees are added to the open payoff.
Inc. Team Roping Payoff
$0 to $750 2 moneys – 60%, 40%
$751 to $1500 3 moneys – 44%, 33%, 23%
$1501 to $3800 4 moneys – 40%, 30%, 20%, 10%
$3801 to $8000 6 moneys – 29%, 24%, 19%, 14%, 9%, 5%
$8001 & Over 8 moneys – 27%, 22%, 18%, 13%, 10%, 5%, 3%, 2%
17% of the incentive team roping fees are added to the open team roping payoff.
All two go rodeos will use the above schedule based on the money in each go
The money will be divided equally between each go and the average.In the event that there are fewer qualified rides or times than there are places to pay in an average at a two go-around rodeo, payment will be made to the next fastest time/highest score of the contestants who did not make two qualified times/scores.
Payoff will be based on "Payoff Schedule" per event, if all places are not filled the payoff will remain according to the payoff schedule and monies for the places not filled will be considered a "Ground Split" between placing contestants. Ground money that is split out between placing contestants will not count towards Year End or All-Around standings. Ground money will not be paid out in events with no qualified rides or times. This money will be placed in a "bonus side-pot" that will be awarded at the GCPRA Finals in said event.

General Judging Rules [Contents]

A rodeo judge shall not ride in one event and judge another riding event.
Flag and barrier judges cannot rope, steer wrestle, or haze in an event he flags.
A judge may participate in a timed event if he furnishes a qualified substitute for his job that will sub for the entire rodeo in that event.
Substitute must be approved by GCPRA.
Judges must be available to the rodeo office three (3) hours before the first performances, and two hours before each performance thereafter. Failure to appear will result in board action. Judges must remain available to the rodeo office until the rodeo secretary has made a final check of the books.
Any judge who does not enforce the rules of the official rulebook will be fined. Association official will, immediately after the rodeo, turn the judge into the association for such as act, giving full particulars. The fine shall be at the Board of Directors discretion but shall not exceed a maximum of judge’s pay for one performance of the rodeo.
Neither timers, barrier judge, field judge, nor riding judge may be changed during the course of a rodeo except in the case of sickness or by request of a GCPRA official in agreement with stock contractor and rodeo committee.
Judges Books:
Markings in the riding events shall be totaled by both judges and the rodeo secretary and posted in ink after each performance. Markings must be totaled by the judges and checked by the secretary in the presence of the judges.
Barrier judges shall keep a record of all penalties in ink. They will be furnished a complete list of contestants by rodeo secretary. The barrier judge’s records and the timers’ must correspond.
Judges may only judge 2 consecutive rodeos, then skip 2. The Board of Directors must approve exceptions. This does not apply to third judge position
When judge’s vests are furnished, judges are responsible for care and maintenance of same and will wear them during all performances of the rodeo including slack at which they judge.
In all cases of dispute, the rodeo will proceed without delay under the existing rules of the GCPRA and the matter of said dispute shall be settled by the judges. Judges are hired to judge the total event in all events in their entirety and may consult with one another in case of dispute. Judges will be accessible to contestants for private discussion regarding scores and any other aspects of the event. Discussions will not be conducted in the arena
prior to, during or after any performance. Judges will also be available to explain to contestants how events will be scored.
Decisions of judges, flagmen and timers will be final.
All arenas, indoor and outdoor, will be disked, or worked, and watered to the satisfaction of the judges. If the arena is watered during intermission, it also must be worked.
All equipment used by contestant is his responsibility and no re-rides or reruns will be given due to faulty equipment. Borrowed equipment is accepted as contestant’s own.
Any time a contestant is fouled in any event, he must declare himself immediately when fouled or take that marking or time.
The judge is to verify the contestant is competing on the correct animal.
If Flagger is out of position and cannot flag because the flag horse is acting up, the contestant should receive the same animal over after the performance or in the slack if the contestant qualified.
Drawing Stock
All stock contest events must be drawn by number by a judge. Stock Contractors are required to bring draw chips for animals to the rodeo marked clearly with the correct number/name of them for each animal in the draw.
There must be a minimum of four (4) exact copies made of the draw. One to be posted, one copy for each judge, and one or more copies for the rodeo secretary's records.
Receptacle containing number to be drawn must be held above the drawing judge's head and numbers shaken between each number that is drawn. Drawing must be conducted so that any entrant may witness the draw.
Drawing stock must be done two (2) hours prior to each performance or slack.
If an animal that is drawn in a riding evet, or is drawn in a pen in a timed event becomes sick or crippled before it is out that time, a judge must pass on the animal's inability to be used before it can be replaced in the draw.
No contestant may compete on the same head of stock twice in the same event at the same rodeo. Should the same animal be drawn, judges will draw another animal for contestant. (Exception: If it is a one-head team roping, it is permissible for one member of a team who is entered twice, to draw the same animal.)
Animals will be inspected and objectionable ones eliminated before drawing. Judges or event director will be responsible for inspection. Judges who fail to comply with this rule will be subject to fine.
A contractor may request judges to draw a pen of cattle prior to actual draw for purpose of sorting livestock.
If a mistake is made in the drawing of livestock, the draw will be re-drawn from the point of the mistake.
All cattle in the draw will be run one time before any cattle will be run twice. Cattle can only run one time in any performance.
All bucking stock must be branded or tagged with legible numbers before draw. All cattle must have a permanent number or commercial tag in one ear (right side for calves, left for steers). No duplicate numbers will be permitted.
Bucking horses cannot be used in both the saddle bronc riding and the bareback riding at the same rodeo.
In all riding events, no new animals will be put in the draw unless previously bucked and approved by director.
Drawing for Members and Non-Members
The draw for members and paid non-members/permits first, then draw for everybody else last. They will be able to set their pens for the members and paid non-members/permits, and everyone else will take what is left. This applies to rough stock only
Method of Drawing Cattle (Example) Saturday Perf. = 10 ropers Sunday Slack = 16 ropers Sunday Perf.= 10 ropers
Requires 20 head (One-half of total plus two)
Step 1: Draw 10 head from all 20 head for 10 contestants in Saturday’s perf. and one extra. If extra is not used, it will be put back in herd for next draw.
Step 2: Draw from only the remaining 10 head (9 + unused extra) for first 10 contestants in slack. This finishes the run on the cattle.
Step 3: To draw for remaining 6 contestants in slack: Draws will be made from the whole herd
Step 4: For Sunday perf., draw from only the 14 head which were not drawn for the second time plus one extra. All cattle must be run once before second run is started.
If for some reason the extra is designated by either stock contractor or event director, extra will stay same through complete draw. Otherwise, extra is just unused and will go back in the herd for next draw.
Method of Drawing Rough Stock
Pens may be set by stock contractor or drawn.
At least two (2) more animals than is needed for a performance should be included in the draw. Feature animals are withheld from the draw until re-rides are drawn. The re-rides are drawn first, then the feature animals are included in the drawn and stock is drawn.

Riding Event Rules & Judging Guidelines [Contents]

Markings in the riding events: To qualify, Bareback and Saddle Bronc rider must have his spurs over or above the break of the shoulders and touching the horse when the horse’s front feet hit the ground on his initial move out of the chute. Some judges have been misinterpreting this rule. It is not necessary to have spurs over the break when the horse is still standing in the chute. Spurs can be well up the horse’s neck so long as they don’t come out or behind the break. Spurs that are rolling above the break should not be disqualified. Too many riders are rough-locking the horse before he ever moves, causing many horses to stall. The best way to spur one out is to reach for him after he moves.
The automatic timer in the announcer’s booth is for the benefit of the contestant. The official time will be kept by the latch side judge and the gate side judge is the backup or in the event that three judges are used the third judge behind the chutes will be the official time. See rulebook!
The spur out rule refers to above the break, which includes all of the darkened area on the horse shown in following figure:
The spurs may be rolling in the bareback riding event, but must be touching the animal when the horse’s front feet hit the ground on its initial move out of the chute. The initial move out of the chute may be the following:
Rear out;
Run out;
Buck out;
Step out; or
Back out - - (Free roll—mark out not required.)
Time starts not when the horse’s front feet hit the initial move, but when the animals inside front should crosses the plane of the chute.
Don’t stand too close or behind the gate. Get a clear view of the rider and the horse at the same time. Don’t be late in shouting, “go on” if the rider gets fouled at the gate or the horse stalls. If the rider gets fouled at the gate, the judge yelling, “go on” tells the contestant if he is in shape to try the animal and the mark out rule has been waived. If contestant tries his animal, he has accepted the animal, and has no re-ride coming because of the foul at the gate. Even if the contestant has missed spurring out on your side, continue to watch the ride because the other official may be waived the spur out rule.
Be aware of a contestant getting in a little trouble and jumping off when he is not fouled by the animal. He may be trying to take advantage of other contestants by getting re-ride. This applies to a horse stumbling and falling or bucking into a fence. A contestant need not declare a rough stock animal that falls in order to receive a marking with an option of a re-ride. Treat all contestants alike.
Ride and Animal are marked separately in Bareback and Saddle
Bronc Riding.
Use the full spread when at all possible and don’t hesitate to mark the top of the spread when you see something outstanding, either rider or horse. Not using the full spread shows lack of confidence and expertise on the part of the judge. This means you should use low marks (from 5-10) for a poor ride or a sorry animal, and higher markings (from 20-25) for exceptional performance by animals and/or riders.
Don’t pick out one thing on which to dock a ride. Watch for this or you will forget about the rest of the good or bad points. Train yourself on what to watch for, and mark the horse and ride accordingly.
Be sure to judge your foot and your foot alone. But if an animal moves to a point where you can’t see your foot, you will have to mark from what you can see. If a bull or horse spins and rider is buried in with your foot and spurring with the other foot, let the other judge mark him accordingly with the other foot, let the other judge mark him accordingly for an outstanding ride, even though your side was only fair.
Anytime one judge’s view is blacked for very much of the ride, he should refer to the other judge’s markings for the animal and to see if the ride was consistent while his view was blocked. In some cases, if a judge doesn’t get to see much of the ride he should disqualify himself and use the other judge’s markings.
Judge the full eight (8) seconds of the ride. If an animal starts and then stalls for any length of time, mark the animal and rider for what they have done. If the animal stalls four-second and bucks four second, only mark him for four seconds. Notify the rider of his markings with the option of a re-ride. Don’t base your markings on the last part only; consider the full time of the ride.
Judges will have discretion to change the total score two points either way at the end of the performance.
Contestants do not necessarily compete in the same order as the judge’s sheets; so make sure you have marked the correct contestant and animal.
Refer back to your books, especially at rodeos with several performances, to refresh your memory about the rides. Don’t let the large crowds or last performance contestants win simply because of when they drew up.
If a rider is fouled in chute, causing him to miss a horse out, but
makes an honest attempt to spur him out and qualifies, the judges shall waive spur-out rule and mark the rider.
If contestant draws an animal that fouls him in the chute his is entitled to a reride if he fails to get out on the animal after two attempts.
The association judges have the right to rule out extremely dangerous animals in the chute.

Re-Rides [Contents]

In the case of riding event stock injuries after the draw has been made, replacement stock should be the designated re-ride for the performance the injured animal was scheduled for competition. A replacement-designated re- ride should be drawn immediately from the notified turnouts for that performance. If there are not any turnouts, a re-ride should be drawn from available animals.
Rerides will be given at the discretion of a judge. Reasons for possible rerides are as follows: if an animal stops at anytime, the rider will receive the option of a reride. If the contestant makes a qualified ride after the animal stops, he will receive a score with the option of a reride, if a rider is fouled, stock contractors equipment fails, or performance of animal is inferior. Contestant may take same animal back, providing stock contractor is willing, or contestant may demand a re-ride animal be drawn. If contestant takes same animal back, he must take that marking. The only exception will be if contestant is fouled or there is an equipment failure. All re-rides must be drawn for. Turnouts cannot be substituted for a re-ride unless all drawn re- ride animals have been used.
If the pickup man or horse comes in contact with a bucking horse before qualified time has elapsed and a qualified ride is made up to the point of contact, an automatic re-ride option will be given.
If re-ride is given, judge shall inform contestant of his marking and an option of a re-ride. Contestant may refuse re-ride and take marking. Contestant must notify judge immediately of his decision to accept or reject the option. If a horse stalls coming out of the chute, either judge shall tell rider to take his feet out of the horse’s neck and first jump qualification will be waived. If judge tells rider to go and rider doesn’t, rider will be disqualified.
If in the opinion of the judges a rider is fouled at the gate, at the judge’s discretion, a re-ride may be given or the spurring out rule may be waived.
If animal fouls rider, he must declare himself immediately in order to receive re-ride. If rider does not declare himself he must accept score given.
In rough stock events, once a contestant declares himself fouled, he may not then continue on and receive a score on that ride.
If an animal that runs off is already drawn for another contestant, that contestant must take the animal already drawn.
If an animal that is drawn for a re-ride is already drawn for another contestant in the same performance, the contestant with the animal drawn will take it before the man who draws the animal for a re-ride. Contestant who was first awarded re-ride will get first drawn re-ride animal. If in the opinion of the judges a rider makes two honest efforts to get out on a
chute-fighting animal and is unable to do so, he may have a re-
ride.
When a final head is to be ridden in a riding event, at least two additional head of stock will be available for re-rides.
If a riding event animal stops after an initial start, and any outside help is used to start it again, contestant will not be required to qualify in order to be awarded a re-ride.
If, in opinion of a judge, an animal fouls the contestant at the chute, he may be awarded a reride if he declares himself. The contestant may be awarded a reride option whether he declares himself or not if a judge rules he did not have a reasonable chance to declare.

Bareback Bronc Riding [Contents]

Horses to be proven bucking horses. Horses to be furnished by the rodeo. Riding to be done with one hand rigging. Rigging shall not be more than two (2) inches in width at hand and not over six (6) inch “D” ring, not a freak. Judges to decide on all riggings.
To qualify, rider must have spurs over the break of the shoulders and touching horse when horse’s inside shoulder crosses the plane of the chute.
Contestants will have the right to call judges to pass on whether riggings are objectionable.
Judge may require rider to take his hand out of the rigging after a horse is cinched. Stock contractor may request the judge to take such actions.
Any of the following offenses will disqualify rider:
Riding with rowels too sharp or locked in the opinion of the judges.
Being bucked off
Touching animal with free hand.
Rider must tell flank man and/or stock contractor if he does not want his draw touched with the hotshots. However, if rider denies use of the hotshot and the animal does not buck, no re-ride shall be given. Animal is not to be hot shotted until animal’s head has turned out of the chute.
There will be no tape or any other adhesive material or substance other than dry resin used on rigging or on rider’s glove, which will be a plain glove with no flaps, rolls, wedges, welds, or gimmicks. Rider may have a single layer of sheepskin or leather under handhold and either one shall be glued down. Rider may not take any kind of finger tuck or finger wrap.
Rigging must lie on horses back while rigging is being cinched. Stock contractor may call judge to pass on whether rigging is being set and/or cinched in a way that might hurt the horse’s back. No fiberglass or metal in rigging or handholds.
Flathead rivets allowed securing handhold; only other metal allowed will be in the d-rings. All riggings must have enough sheepskin or sponge rubber underneath to cover the bars. Pads used under riggings must be leather covered on both sides. If they are hair pads, they must be at least one (1") inch thick, and if a foam pad, at least one and one-quarter (1 ¼”) inches thick. Pads will extend at least two (2) inches behind the riggings.
Judges shall disqualify bareback rider who has been advised he is next to go if he is not above the animal with his glove on when previous horse leaves the arena.
Horses will be ridden eight (8) seconds; time to start when inside shoulder breaks the plane of the chute.
If rigging comes off horse with or without breaking, rider is disqualified.

Saddle Bronc Riding [Contents]

Horses to be proven bucking horses. Horses to be furnished by the
rodeo. Riding to be done with plain halter, one rope rein and saddle that complies with Association specifications listed below. If contractor does not approve of contestant’s halter, stock contractor must furnish one.
Contestant Saddle Specifications:
Rigging: ¾ double front edge at d-ring must pull not further back than directly below center of point of swell. Stranded E- Z or ring type saddle d-ring must be used and cannot exceed 5 ¾ inch outside with measurements.
Swell undercut: Not more than two (2) inches, one on each side.
Gullet: Not less than four (4) inches wide at center of fork of covered saddle.
Tree: Saddles must be built on standard tree specifications:
Fork – 14” wide
Height – 9” wide
Gullet – 5 ¾” wide
Cantle – 5” maximum height, 14” maximum width
Stirrup leathers must hang over bars.
No freaks allowed.
Standard halter must be used unless agreement is made by both contestant and stock contractor.
Riding rein and hand must be on same side. Horses to be saddled in chute, rider may cinch own saddle. Saddles shall not be set too far ahead on horse’s withers. Either stock contractor or contestant has the right to call the judges to pass on whether or not horse is properly saddled and flanked to buck its best. Middle flank belongs to rider, but contractor may have rider put flank behind curve of horse’s belly. Flank cinch may be hobbled.
One arm must be free at all times.
Saddle bronc riding shall be timed for eight (8) seconds. Time to start when horse’s inside shoulder breaks the plane of the chute.
Rider must tell flank man and/or stock contractor if he does not want his draw touched with the hotshots. However, if rider denies use of the hotshot and the animal does not buck, no re-ride shall be given. Animal is not to be hot shotted until animal’s head has turned out of the chute.
Any of the following offenses shall disqualify a rider:
Being bucked off
Changing hands on rein
Wrapping rein around hand
Pulling leather
Losing stirrup (Continued next page)
Touching animal, saddle or rein with free hand
Riding with locked rowels, or rowels that will lock on spurs
Dry resin may be used on chaps and saddle. Anyone using any other foreign substance shall be disqualified and subject to the following fines:
$25 first offense; $50 second offense; board action third offense.
Judges may disqualify bronc rider who has been advised he is next to go if he is not above the animal with his rein in hand when previous horse leaves the arena.

Bull Riding [Contents]

Animals to be proven bucking bulls. Animals to be furnished by rodeo.
Riding to be done with one hand and loose rope, with or without handhold: NO KNOTS OR HITCHES to prevent the rope from falling off bull or steer when rider leaves him. Rope must have a bell—NO BELL=NO SCORE. Bell must be under the belly of the bull. Bull is to be ridden eight (8) seconds; time to start when animal’s inside shoulder breaks the plane of the chute.
If rider makes a qualified ride with any part of the rope in his riding hand, he is to be marked.
The contestant will have the right to call on judges to rule on whether or not his bull is properly flanked to buck to the best of the bull’s ability.
No more than two men may be on chute to pull contestant’s rope.
Tipped hooks, rings and/or posts shall not be used on bull ropes.
Head fighting bulls having bad horns must be tipped or kept out of draw. No bull may be put in the draw until his horns have been cut back a reasonable distance. Bull riders have the option to ask for a re- ride animal if bull’s horns are not tipped or he is not a proven animal.
Rider will be disqualified for any of the following offenses:
Being bucked off
Touching the animal or himself with free hand
Using too sharp spurs
Placing spurs or chaps under rope when rope is being tightened
Judges may disqualify a bull rider who has been advised that he is next to go if he is not above the animal with his glove on when previous bull leaves the arena.

Timed Event Rules & Judging Guidelines [Contents]

All timed events will be timed to the tenths unless otherwise stated in the individual event rules. Barrel Racing is to be timed to the 100th.
In any timed event, if an animal escapes from the arena, the flag will be dropped and watches stopped. The contestant will get the same animal back after the performance, with consideration for the situation (roped or not roped). If the animal was not roped, the contestant will get the animal back with a lap- and-tap start; time already spent to be added to the time used in qualifying. A lap-and-tap start is hand flagged at the score line by the line judge. The contestant must start from a mounted position. Time resumes on lap-and-tap start when the animal crosses the score line. Do not allow the contestant to compete on the animal until the animal goes across the score line. If the animal was roped prior to escaping from the arena, the animal with the rope on it is placed in the chute and time will resume when the animal makes
his initial move out of the chute.
A field judge must ask contestants if they want a second loop (applies only to two go rodeos) or jump, once a man has been flagged out, he will receive no stock back. If time is not recorded when a field flagger flags out a contestant who has a second loop or jump coming, the contestant has the option of taking the animal back, lap-and-tap, with 10 seconds added to the new time.
During any performance, if an animal in a timed event escapes the chutes or pens before it is called for by contestant, or if the automatic barrier fails to work and stock is brought back, contestant must take same animal over, during or immediately after the same performance, and that animal will be returned by the arena director and the labor crew during, or at the end of that performance, in the same manner he was originally worked or brought to the pens for contesting. At least three head ofstock will be brought back together. No animal may be re-penned by himself. Decision will be made by judge about when stock is to be re-penned.
In calf roping and breakaway, it is the barrier judge’s responsibility to have two liners whom he will position. In all timed events, during performance and slack, only persons or team competing shall be in the arena unless otherwise instructed by gate person or judge. It is also the responsibility of the judge to have a spotter for the breakaway, due to the bell collar (clean neck) rule. Fine
for failure to comply: $25 per offense.
Flag judge shall position himself for calf roping at the end of the arena allowing him to come toward the roper. In steer wrestling and team roping; field flagger shall place himself against fence on the left-hand side of the timed event box.
If an animal that is drawn in a pen in a timed event becomes sick or crippled before it is out that time, a judge must pass on the animal’s inability to be used before it can be shipped or replaced in the draw. If an animal is injured in the process of contesting in the timed events, the contestant shall not receive another head during that go round.
All performance competition order changes must be made with rodeo secretary, timed event chute boss, timers and announcer prior to the start of the event. These changes are made only if contestants are not on the
grounds or unless splitting of horse is necessary. Contestants can only be moved far enough to accommodate the split on the horse. If contestant appears on the ground prior to the contest where animal can be run according to draw list that should be accommodated.
Within the confines of the timed event box, it is the privilege of a contestant to dismiss someone from the box. He/she may instruct the judge to either remove or allow other people in the box to help.
If splitting of horses is necessary, request must be made to rodeo secretary or judges. Contestants can only be moved far enough to accommodate the split on a horse. In such case, the first contestant drawn for a position not riding this horse shall be moved up to the position to be split unless judges or event director authorize a further split. However, contestant originally drawn as first out must remain first out. This pertains to scheduled and unscheduled performances.
In roping events, a dropped rope that must be recoiled to be rebuilt is considered a thrown rope.
Neck ropes must be tied with string. No metal snaps, rubber bands or hardware allowed anywhere on neck rope in the timed events. Adjustable slide shall be used on all neck ropes for cattle used in the timed events. All neck ropes must have a slip-knot on neck for snug fit.
Animal belongs to contestant when he calls for him, regardless of what happens, except in cases of mechanical failure. If contestant accepts, he accepts it as sound.
All score line lengths are to be set by the judges in accordance with the rulebook and arena conditions unless otherwise approved.
There shall be two timers; a barrier judge and a field flag judge. Time to be taken between two flags.
Any timed event contestant who fails to heed an initial warning from the field flagger that he is mistreating an animal will be fined $100 for the first offense and $200 for the second offense. In addition, if warranted, the field flagger may disqualify that contestant from the event for the remainder of the rodeo.
If any arena personnel interfere with a timed event competition, at the discretion of the judge, contestant may receive a rerun if qualified up to that
point and if he declares himself at time of interference.
In all timed events (excluding barrel racing), the draw must cross the score line and the contestant must clear the box before a qualified run can start. This means the horse’s chest must pass the plane of the barrier before the loop can be thrown.

Barrier [Contents]

A 10-foot tape must be on hand for the Barrier Judge. Height of barrier in timed events shall be from 32 to 36 inches, measured at the center of the box. In timed events where automatic barriers are used, automatic slack catchers are to be eliminated. Knot behind pulley is required on barriers. Length of tail on barrier is not to exceed 10 inches. There must be score line in place made of rope or similar product. The neck rope should be 18” shorter than the score line on calves and 24” shorter than the score line on steers to allow for animal’s head and neck to be in front of the neck rope. This should be measured by stretching the neck rope on the ground with loop pulled tight and pin in place.
It is the stock contractor’s responsibility to furnish adequate, functioning barrier equipment at sanctioned rodeos. However, GCPRA may elect to use its own barrier equipment.
Barriers in the timed events must be a side-pull barrier with pulley and neck rope pulling from side of chute, instead of an overhead pull.
Barrier Judge is responsible for changing barrier string whenever it may have been weakened, or on request of next contestant.
Barrier Judge shall keep a record of the length on the barrier trip rope each performance, to assure the same start for contestants on every performance. Adjusting length of barrier trip rope will be accomplished only by tying knots in the rope on either end.
A 10-second penalty will be added for breaking or beating the barrier. In all timed events, a barrier will not be considered broken unless ring drops within 10 feet of post. Providing contestant did not obviously beat the barrier.
Barrier equipment must be inspected by the judge before each timed event. If equipment is faulty, it must be replaced. Should barrier break at any point other than designated breaking point, decision is up to the Barrier Judge. If contestant obviously beats barrier, but the staples are pulled, or barrier rope is broken and string unbroken, Barrier Judge may assess a 10-second penalty. Otherwise, this will not be considered a broken barrier.
If Barrier flagman is used, animal to be flagged when animal’s nose crosses the starting line, or deadline in front of flagman.
Barrier Judge shall be sure that nobody can stand close enough to barrier equipment to tamper, with it. Barrier Judge to stand on same side as contestant.
Once score has been set in timed event, it will not be changed at that rodeo, nor can length of box be changed.
In order for time to be considered official, Barrier Flag must operate. The Barrier Flag would be on the barrier pole or barrier instead of on the neck rope of the time-event cattle.
If automatic barrier does not work but time is recorded, contestant or team will get time, but there will be no penalty for broken barrier, providing judge rules barrier was not beaten.
If automatic barrier fails to work and official time has not started, contestant or team will get stock back if stock is qualified on in field.
If, in the opinion of the Line Judge, contestant is fouled by barrier, contestant shall get their calf or steer back providing contestant declares himself by pulling up immediately. If barrier equipment lands on animal, it will be up to the contestant to declare the foul immediately.
Any deviation in the length of established barrier rules because of arena conditions or cattle must be approved by Event Director or Judges prior to rodeo.

Beating the Barrier [Contents]

Stretching the barrier without obviously beating the barrier is not considered a broken barrier. If, however, the barrier is not broken but obviously beaten, a 10-seond penalty should still be imposed.
Any time the chest of the horse behind the barrier crosses the vertical plane of the barrier rope before the animal to be contested on is given the proper head start, the barrier is considered beaten and 10-second penalty should be imposed. (Examples: Horse rears over barrier rope, rope breaks but sting doesn’t, staples are pulled out, barrier trips early and contestant takes obvious advantage of it).
The Line Judge must have a tape measure in his possession in case the short end of the barrier is carried. If the pigtail is carried more than 10 feet from the pin, the barrier may be waived, providing the contestant did not
obviously beat the barrier. However, if the contestant has obviously broken the barrier, you may still impose a beating-the-barrier penalty.
If the barrier doesn’t pull the pin and the tail of the barrier may or may not remain pinned, a barrier penalty may be omitted. In such cases that judge alone should determine whether the fault is in the equipment or the contestant.
When the chute is temporary, make sure no one leans or pushes against it causing the barrier to trip early or not function properly.
The decision of whether an animal in the timed events is to be brought back is the sole responsibility of the judges. The contestant must either qualify or declare to receive another chance.
Qualify: If the contestant has no visible way of knowing if something didn’t function properly, he must qualify in order to get another chance.
Declare: If the contestant is fouled and he can visibly see that he is or will be fouled, must declare by pulling up or attempting to pull up and not try to go on with the contest. If he does not declare, he accepts the situation the way it is. You should not give the contestant two chances by letting him try an animal and then get that animal if he doesn’t do well.

Additional Judging Guidelines [Contents]

Barrier judges shall keep a record of all barrier fines in ink. They will be furnished a complete list of contestants by the rodeo secretary and their records and the rodeo secretary’s must correspond.
Field flagger: When a timed event animal escapes from the arena, the flag will be dropped and watch stopped. Contestants will get animal back with lap and tap start.
It is the responsibility of the Barrier judge to make sure the cattle are properly lined. The liners and gatemen are to be instructed by the judge of the proper way to perform the duties.
Watching the barrier:
Place the neck rope on the animal correctly. (The short side toward the contestant.)
Position yourself correctly depending upon the event. (See events.)
After reaching the correct position, watch to see contestant nod and ask for his animal.
Check to see if the animal pulls the barrier prior to the string breaking off the animal’s neck. (Sometimes the neck rope string may break before pulling the barrier if it doesn’t feed correctly, string is too weak, string is not tied correctly or other reasons.)
Use peripheral vision to watch the neck rope and pin somewhat at the same time.
The barrier is used to determine when it is too close to call, but the judge must make the decision if the barrier fails to operate correctly. If a lineman has not been designated before and event starts then there will not be any lining for the remainder of the event. If a contestant’s pusher intentionally or accidentally pulls the barrier, the judge may assess a 10- second penalty.
The barrier string or the neck rope string should be tied with one string. If two or more strengths are needed, wrap the string around two or more times. This creates equal tension on each strand.

Tie Down Roping [Contents]

Rope may be dallied or tied hard and fast; either is permissible.
Contestant must rope calf, dismount, go down rope, throw calf by hand and cross and tie any three feet.
To qualify as legal tie, calf must be tied and remain in a three-bone cross for 6 seconds and passed on by the judge. If calf is down when roper reaches it, the calf must be let up to his feet and be thrown by hand. If roper’s hand is on the calf when calf falls, calf is considered thrown by hand. Rope must hold calf until roper gets hand on calf. Tie must hold and three legs remain crossed until passed on by the judge, and roper must not touch calf after given “finished” signal until after judge has completed his examination. The Field Flag Judge will start six-second time when the rope horse takes his first step forward after the roper has remounted. Rope will not be removed from the calf, and rope must remain slack until Field Judge has passed on tie. In the event the contestant’s catch rope is off a calf after completion of tie, the six-second-time period is to start when roper clears calf. Flagger must watch calf during the six-second period and will stop watch when a calf kicks free, using the time shown on the watch to determine
whether calf was tied long enough to qualify. Flagger will offer to show the roper the time on the stopwatch should the calf come untied before the 6 seconds have elapsed. Roper will be disqualified for removing rope from the calf after signaling for time, until the Field Judge has passed on the tie. If tie comes loose, or calf gets to his feet before tie has been ruled a fair one, the roper will be marked “no time.”
Two loops are permitted in a two or more go around rodeos. Should the roper miss with both loops, he must retire and no time will be allowed. Roping calf without releasing loop from hand is not permitted. If roper intends to use two loops, he must carry two ropes and must use second rope for second loop. No rebuilding will be allowed.
A field Judge must ask the contestant if he wants a second loop. If time is not recorded when a Field Flagger flags out a contestant who has a second loop coming, the contestant has the option of taking the animal back, lap-and-tap with 10 seconds.
A contestant wishing to use a second loop or jump must reply at once. No immediate effort from the contestant would signify the contestant’s decision to not attempt a second jump or throw a second loop. Consider, however, an aggressive effort may spook a roping horse.
There will be a 25 second elapsed time limit in the Calf Roping. The Timer shall blow a whistle indicating “no time” at the end of the 25-second span. Deviations must be approved at time of rodeo approval. (This limit does not apply when two loops are allowed i.e. multi go round events.)
Contestant is subject to a fine if he does anything that causes undue stress to the calf.
Contestant must adjust rope and reins in a manner that will prevent horse from dragging calf. Contestant must receive no assistance of any kind from outside. If horse drags calf excessively. The field Judge may stop the horse. Unintentional dragging of a calf will be a $25 fine for 1st offense, $50 fine for 2nd offense, and
$100 fine for each additional offense in same rodeo year.
Intentional dragging caused by the contestant’s actions that result in his horse dragging the calf in excess of 2 feet, will result in disqulalification and/or a $50 fine for 1st offense, $100 fine for 2nd offense, $200 fine for any additional offense in current rodeo year and possible disqualification and/or suspension as determined by GCPRA Board.
Automatic barrier must be used at all rodeos for calf roping. Length of score will be 4 feet less than the box. Any deviation must be approved by a director or judge prior to rodeo.
Roping calves shall weigh at least 180 pounds and not exceed 250 pounds. Calves may not differ in weight more than 20 pounds. All calves must be of same breed origin.
No horned cattle will be used with horns longer than 2 inches unless approved by the Event Director.
No less than half enough calves plus two must be brought to the rodeo for the Calf Roping. No calf should be run more than twice at any rodeo. Any variation of this rule must be approved by the Event Director.
There is to be one calf at the Finals Rodeo for each calf roper, and all calves should be fresh if possible.
If calf is down when roper reaches it, the calf must be let up to his feet and thrown by hand. If the calf’s feet are under him and his body is on or touching the ground, he is not up. If a calf is down, he must be lifted high enough with his feet and legs in a standing position so that three feet are touching the ground before he can be flanked and tied. There is no “day lighting” a calf.
To qualify as a legal time, calf tied in a three-bone cross and secured with a half hitch. (Example: One wrap around two legs, third leg wrapped to one or both of first two.) The tie must hold and three legs remain crossed for six (6) seconds and passed on by the judge. The roper must not touch the calf after giving a finished signal until after the judge has completed his examination. However, if the roper injures himself and has to use the animal to push off to get up, then he should not be penalized. If the roper is injured to a point of being unable to remount his horse, another person may ride the horse forward for the six (6) second time period.

Incentive Tie Down Roping [Contents]

The GCPRA has a three member panel that will clarify if you are an incentive or open calf roper. The three man panel does not have to be unanimous; two of the three must be in agreement. The panel has the right to evaluate and move any roper at any time throughout the rodeo season. All contestants wishing to be incentive calf ropers will need to submit an incentive application each year along with a $25.00 processing fee.
Any contestant wishing to enter a GCPRA rodeo must have an incentive application filled out, submitted to the state secretary and approved by day of entries Opening for said rodeo to the lead sanctioned association.
If you are classified as an incentive calf roper and you win $600 in the open calf roping within the first two- thirds of the season, you will be moved into the open. The money won in the incentive calf roping is not transferable to the open calf roping standings. Any Incentive roper moved to the open calf roping within the
first two- thirds of the season will not be eligible to enter the finals as an incentive roper regardless of year end standings.
Any member in good standing that is over the age of 60 years old will qualify as an incentive calf roper regardless of ability.
To be moved out of the open calf roping and into the incentive calf roping a written appeal along with a completed application & a $25 processing fee must be sent to the GCPRA rodeo office for review by the three member panel.
17% of the incentive entry fee money is to be added to the open payoff.

Additional Judging Guidelines [Contents]

Line Judge should position himself at the score line on the same side as the contestant providing arena structure will allow such positioning. Liners should be on the opposite side of the Line Judge at the score line.
A field Flag Judge should position himself far enough down the left side of the arena fence so that you have a full view of the calf and the roper as you ride toward the contestant to inspect the throw and the tie. The best approach after the roper has caught his calf is a position at a 45-degree angle behind and to the side of the contestant. This will enable you to tell if the calf was allowed to regain his feet. (If the calf does regain his feet in front and back, he will be considered up.) You should be able to return to your starting position without holding up the rodeo.
Position yourself so that you are able to see if both of the roper’s hands are free from the pigging string and calf when you drop the flag. If you are at the roper’s back, be sure you can see both of the roper’s hands.
Don’t anticipate fast ties. Watch the contestant put the wraps and the half hitch on the calf. Then give a quick, sharp drop of the flag after both hands are free from the string and calf.
A roper is to be disqualified if he removes a rope from the calf after signaling for time if the Field Flagger has not passed on the tie. (However, you may request a contestant to cut or remove his rope to prevent injury to the animal if the horse is fouled or tangled in the rope.)
A contestant must release the calf to the untie men when they get into proper position. Contestant must remount his horse allowing untie men to release the calf.
A judge must use discretion on stopping a roping horse that is dragging a calf. Ride up crossways allowing the horse to bump into you but don’t spook the horse by waving, yelling or other actions which may upset the horse.
Procedure used when tying fresh calves:
With a rope on the calf, flank and tie the calf.
Permit that calf to try the tie while you release and tie the next calf.
Remove the rope from the first calf, allowing it to regain its feet, then flank it by an ear and tie the calf a second time.
Ranch-tied calves are not acceptable.
All fresh cattle will be tied until they lay prior to each performance or slack through the first draw. This is to be done prior to the performance or slack and with a Judge or Director present.
All calves will be run through the chutes to the back end to show them the exit gate prior to the first performance and/or slack. This is to be done if calves are fresh or not.

Six Second Procedure [Contents]

The Field Flag Judge will pass on the tie-though use of stop watch, timing six
(6) seconds from the time the rope horse takes his first step forward after the roper has remounted, providing there is slack in the rope. Slack in the rope during the six-second procedure would be defined as the roping laying on the ground a minimum of 2 to 3 feet in front of the calf.
Start your watch for six-second time limit only after roper has remounted his horse and the horse has stepped forward.
A slack rope before the rider remounts the horse does not constitute the starting of the watch. (If a rope is not on the animal, the six-second-time period starts immediately upon completion of the tie.)
Slack must remain in the rope during six-second time procedure to be a qualified tie.
If, after signaling for time, a roper in any way intentionally causes his horse to work rope, he will be disqualified.
If, at any time during the six (6) seconds, the rope comes off the ground, the judge will stop the time and notify the contestant to ride forward or let go of his rope. When the contestant complies, the time will resume.
Start your watch and check to see if it is running. During the rest of the six seconds, do not take your eyes off the animal.
In order to keep your eyes on the animal and not the watch; work out a counting system in your mind.
If calf kicks free, stop your watch. A full six seconds must be registered on the watch to be legal.
As a courtesy to the contestant, allow him to check your watch if he so desires.

Ladies Breakaway Roping [Contents]

One loop only will be permitted in each of the one go-round rodeos. Two loops will be permitted in two go rodeos if two loops are carried. A dropped loop is a thrown loop. Should the contestant miss with both loops, she will receive a no time.
There will be a 30 second elapsed time limit. The Timer shall blow a whistle indicating “no time” at the end of the 30- second span. Deviations must be approved at time of rodeo approval. (This limit does not apply when two loops are allowed i.e. multi go round events.)
Ropes must be tied to the saddle horn with colored nylon string to be provided by the GCPRA, it is the breakaway roper's responsibility to obtain said nylon string from the rodeo secretary. Ropes must have a handkerchief or other colorful cloth or material attached to them, no more than 6 inches from the saddle horn. Penalty for misplacement flag or handkerchief or use of non-regulation string will result in disqualification by the flagger. Tampering or splitting of colored nylon string will result in disqualification.
The breakaway rope must have a tied knot at the end. The approved nylon string must be tied at the knot tightly to the saddle horn. Should the contestant choose to carry extra coils on rope, approved nylon string and/or handkerchiefs are not to be tied to coils. Approved string and handkerchiefs are to be placed accordingly as stated in rule #2 above.
In two loop situations, second loop must be tied to saddle horn with its own colored nylon string prior to competing.
The judge will flag the contestant when the rope breaks away from the horn and time will be taken.
The contestant will receive a no time should she break the rope away from the saddle horn by hand. However, if the rope should dally around the horn, the contestant may ride forward, un-dally the rope, and stop her horse to make the rope break away from the horn.
No horned cattle will be used with horns longer than 2 inches unless approved by Event Director.
The only legal catch will be a bell collar catch. Any other catch will be called a “no-time”. A bell collar catch is defined as the animal’s whole head with no extremities. The loop must first pass over the animal’s head.
The contestant must pass through the barrier before throwing her loop.
The contestant must be on her horse when time is taken.
Barrier, timers and time limit rules as used in the calf roping apply in breakaway roping also.
Breakaway rope may not be run through bridle, tie down, neck rope or any other device.
Barrier judge or event director may check contestant’s tie-on to horn prior to contestant competing.
The flagger will position himself on the right side of the arena more than half way down.
A spotter will be assigned by judges to determine legal head catch.

Steer Wrestling [Contents]

After catching the steer, the steer wrestler must either bring the steer to a stop or change the steer’s body direction before the throw. The steer is considered knocked down if he is knocked to his knees in front, his hocks behind, or a combination of both, before his body direction is changed or he’s brought to a stop. In this instance the steer must be let up and then thrown to be legal. The steer is considered thrown only when it is lying flat on its side, or on its back, with all four feet and head straight. Make sure that the entire length of the steer’s body is on the ground before contestant will be flagged.
Steer wrestler must be touching the steer when flagged.
“Dog fall” refers to a steer falling in the opposite direction the steer wrestler is
attempting to throw him. Be aware of the fact that if the steer dog falls, the contestant may choose to turn the steer’s head to correspond with the leg position to make this a legal fall.
After catching steer from horse if steer gets loose, contestant may take no more than one step to catch steer.
When the steer wrestler is working with a steer, the hazer is not to render assistance of any kind--touching, holding, batting, or striking the steer in any way. A hazer giving assistance will constitute contestant disqualification. (Waving the dogging horse off is not giving assistance.)
Contestant and hazer must use same two horses they leave box with.
Steer wrestler must leave from left box and hazer from the right box.
Fairness of catch and throw will be judge’s decision.
Contestant must help steer up if needed. No abusive force permitted toward horses or cattle or contestant can be fined.
If steer wrestler misses steer, flag judge must ask if contestant wishes another jump. Contestant must reply at once.
The entire herd of steer wrestling cattle must be approved by either the director or a designated steer wrestling contestant in good standings. If the herd is not approved, it is then up to the director to help find an approved herd and the stock contractor will be responsible for transport to and from the rodeo, as well as stock fees.
Weight of all steer-wrestling cattle will be a minimum of 450 pounds and a maximum of 650 pounds.
The score for the steer wrestling will be 6 feet less than the length of the box according to arena or cattle conditions. Any deviation must be approved by director or judge prior to rodeo.
Steer Wrestling must precede barrel racing as an event or arena must be worked
to fill barrel pattern holes.
Hazers must have one of the following: Membership card, permit or working card.
Cattle used for other events cannot be used for steer wrestling.
No steers can be held over from one year to the next without GCPRA board approval.
Cattle used in steer wrestling must have ear tags in left ear or permanent brand on left side or horn brand on left side.
Horns on dogging steers must be blunted to size of dime. Failure to do so is fineable offense.
Horns of steers unable to pass through roping chute must be trimmed within reason.
The field flagger should position himself on the left-hand side of the arena by the dogging box. When the steer wrestler passes, follow him down the left side of the arena. When you are unable to follow the dogging horse, position yourself so that you will be on the side where you are best able to see the steer’s head and all four feet.
If for any reason the flagger is out of position when the steer is thrown and cannot see all four legs, he should watch the hips of the steer. If the hip appears flat you have to assume all four feet are out.
Watch until contestant turns the steer loose. If contestant continues to twist on the steer, tell him to turn him loose at once. If he does not comply, report him to the association office for inhumane treatment of stock, giving details for the offense. If necessary, steer wrestler is required to turn the steer’s head so he can get up.
Allow the contestant to hold the horns or head to protect himself from the steer throwing his head or if the steer’s horns are caught in the contestant’s clothing. The flagger should watch until the steer has been turned loose.
Contestant has a maximum of 60 seconds to catch the steer and as long as it takes to throw the steer. Failure to catch the steer within the 60 second time period will result in disqualification.

Ladies Barrel Racing [Contents]

No circling horse in arena. One spin or pivot in either direction is acceptable when contestants are not required to run in and out or keep forward motion prior to crossing score line. Fine for circling $20.00.
Intentional training during your money run will result in an automatic $20.00 fine.
Not complying with posted ground rules could result in a minimum
$20.00 fine. Specific ground rules regarding running in and out of the arena will be posted within the rodeo office at each location.
Contestant may not compete twice in same paid performance unless rerun is given.
Contestants setting up barrels in arena any time other than during performance must remove barrels from arena and restore them to their original place or will be subject to $10 fine. Barrels are not to be set on markers or any closer than 15 feet to markers at any time other than the performance/slack, subject to a $50 fine.
Moving markers at any time between opening and closing gates of the rodeo with the intent to place a contestant in a favored position will be subject to fine and/or disqualification.
Upon entering a barrel race or other timed events, contestant must notify rodeo secretary if two are riding the same horse and request being split in drawn performance. Second contestant may be moved to the bottom of that performance.
Barrel race is a timed event, using brightly colored 55-gallon steel drums. Both ends of the barrels must be enclosed.
There shall be no rubber/plastic barrels or barrel pads used.
There is to be only one contestant horse in the arena at a time during the
barrel race, without exception.
The starting gate or gates will remain the same throughout the entire rodeo.
The start/finish line and the position for the barrels must be marked permanently for the entire rodeo, are on the same line and constant throughout the rodeo.
The contestant is allowed a running start, and will be required to run in and out of the arena when an acceptable, centrally located gate or gates safely permits, or by special board of director approval. Certain arena setups or committee requirements may necessitate closed gates or walking into arena before starting run. Contestants will be notified and failure to comply will result in $10 fine.
Any time contestant crosses start/finish line, time will begin. Time will end upon the completion of a cloverleaf pattern and crossing the starting/finish line.
Contestants will be assessed a five second penalty for knocking over a barrel. Touching barrel is permitted, barrels knocked over and lands on opposite end in upright position will still be assessed a five second penalty. Barrel must be set back on marker if barrel is moved.
Contestants have a maximum of 30 seconds to complete the pattern. Failure to do so within the 30 seconds will result in disqualification.

Reruns [Contents]

When a rerun is given, the time will be set by the judge and the section will run in the order originally drawn.
Should, for any reason, the barrels not be placed on the markers or the flagman was not be in the correct place, things must be made correct and all contestants who ran on the incorrect course must rerun with no penalties assessed.
Judges must make decision that barrels were not on marker. Should this happen, contestants and judges should be notified, then judge and arena director will set the time for rerun.
Should the contestants know the barrels are set wrong and there is not sufficient time to correct it, section will be moved to after the performance.
If a contestant has run, she must be allowed to make any rerun after performance.
The decision to rerun must be made immediately following the rodeo and all contestants notified, if possible.
If a barrel is off the marker and it is to the contestant’s disadvantage, she should be allowed to choose if she wants to rerun or take her original time, if a rerun is given. This should be for certain situations where a contestant might have to make several (3 or more) runs.
In the event a barrel is off the marker or the timer or flagman is not in proper position, and conditions cannot be corrected and a rerun given, the rodeo will be paid off using the day money system in order not to sacrifice money won at that rodeo.
Should the marker be gone and a tape measure is used to set up the barrel, that is sufficient, and no rerun will be allowed.
In any barrel race section not a part of a paid performance, posted position order as listed will be followed.
At least thirty (30) minutes time must be given between runs when two go rounds are run in slack.
When a rerun is required for any reason, there shall be a delay of thirty (30) minutes, if contestant so desires.
There shall be no reruns given at a rodeo when a horse falls, unless it is posted in the rodeo office as a special ground rule of that particular rodeo. Rerun will then be decided upon at judge’s discretion.

Disqualification [Contents]

Contestant will be disqualified for not being ready to contest when her name is called. Contestant will be called three (3) times by announcer and if she does not present herself, she will be disqualified. Contestant will have 1 minute to start their competition run.
Contestant will be disqualified for missing pattern, consisting of a cloverleaf pattern around the barrels, consisting of two left turns and one right, or vice versa.
Contestant will be disqualified for turning a barrel twice or crossing the finish line prior to completion of run. Contestant will be disqualified for not completing the pattern within the 30 second time limit.

Back-To-Back Runs [Contents]

At rodeos when back-to-back runs are approved, girls will make runs in consecutive performances or slack, when possible. When back-to-back runs are the same day and a rerun is necessary, contestant may be given the option of competing at another designated time or performance.

Ground Preparation [Contents]

Committee is asked to prepare ground in the arena and the alley way to be consistent throughout the event.
Ground around the barrels will be worked with a tractor, if one is available, after every seven (7) runs (can be less if judges and or director agrees). If a tractor is not available hand raking is acceptable. This includes slack. Number of contestants to run during a performance should not exceed 15.
Raking for Finals will be determined by the Board of Directors and reasonable notice of decision will be given to Barrel Racers.

Barrel Pattern [Contents]

The standard distance between barrels 1 and 2 is 90 feet.
Distance of 105 feet between barrels 1 and 3 and between 2 and 3.
Score line should be a minimum of 45 feet from the end of arena unless there is a center alley or size does not permit; however, 60 to 65 feet is preferable, especially when there is a closed gate.
The following shall be used in smaller arenas:
The score line should be at least 45 feet away from the end of the arena, unless there is a center alley or size does not permit.
Barrels 1 and 2 must be at least 15 feet from the sides of the arena.
Barrel 3 should be at least 36 feet from the end of the arena, and no closer than 25 feet.
In narrow arenas the 3rd barrel should be set at least 15’ longer than the 1st and 2nd barrels.
Over sizing of a standard pattern in exceptionally large arenas is prohibited.
In small arenas it is recommended the pattern be reduced proportionately to a standard barrel pattern.
Barrels will be centered over the top of the markers.

Marking Barrels [Contents]

Judges will measure and mark barrel positions and provide rodeo secretary with a copy to post. Any contestant who disagrees with barrel markings must notify judges a minimum of one hour prior to start of rodeo.
When rodeo has non-pro, Jr. barrel race or queen contest or additional event that uses the cloverleaf pattern or barrels, barrels must not be put on GCPRA barrel markers and new set of markers must be set at least 15 feet from GCPRA markers.
The barrels must be marked using a 300-foot measuring tape. The starting line must also be measured using the 300-foot tape to insure barrel racers going either to the right or left the same opportunity. Permanent markers shall be placed on both sides to indicate starting line.
You may use a pointed metal stake, horseshoe or can with a chain or rope attached to the end of it to stake the barrel positions. Be sure to completely cover the object, leaving only chain or rope on top of the ground.
Markers should be buried at the location of each barrel so the barrels will be in the same place during each complete go-round.
If the electric timer is used, permanent markers should be set for it also.
It is the responsibility of each member or permit holder to see the barrel and timer markers are set before the rodeo begins, and to check the markers prior to each performance, unless they are set by judges, officials or committees. Permit holders and members who fail to do this will be subject to fine.

Electric Timers [Contents]

Equipment necessary: complete electric eye timer plus extra timing clocks or stop watches to be operated manually.
Electric timer must be backed up by a flagman who will stand directly behind one timer post in the arena. If the electric timer is mounted in the fence, the judge should stand in the most advantageous position to flag the race.
Read out box times must be read and recorded by official timer or official judge. One timer will record the times that appear on the electric eye controlled readout. Timers will operate the back up manual clocks or stopwatches and will record the time shown thereon. They will operate from the flagman’s signals and record the time in hundredths.
Permanent markers should be put in the ground for the electric timer. Electric timers should be placed on the score line no closer than the width of the first two barrels for the electric eye to be centered in each performance.
For larger arenas, it is suggested that electric eyes be set no further than 100 feet apart.
Line on fence for flagman should be well marked. These markers should be checked every performance along with the barrel markers and restaked if pulled out.
The barrel race will be timed in hundredths but never thousandths when electric eye is used. Set timer the same height and position each performance and lock the legs.
Unless a mechanical failure occurs, person setting timer should stand back at least 6 feet from the timer.

Electric Timer Failure [Contents]

A rerun must be called for immediately following the event and contestants must be notified.
If a contestant decides to accept rerun there will be no penalties assessed from previous runs.
Those contestants who are not present at the rerun, or choose not to rerun, must take the time reported on the first run.
If the electric timer fails to work, regardless if it is the first performance, every attempt should be made to have the timer for the remaining performance.
If the electric eye fails to work for more than one-half of the contestants in an entire go round, the back up (manual) recorded times will be the official times for all contestants in that go round.
The decision of judge or board of directors shall be final.

Additional Judging Guidelines [Contents]

There shall be two (2) judges in the barrel race who shall be required to flag barrel racing, and enforce all rules pertaining to that competition.
Judges or directors should check barrel and eye markers prior to each rodeo performance.
Flag judge should flag each contestant’s horse’s nose at the start/finish line.
A GCPRA director or judge shall have the right to stop the barrel race during a performance or slack due to bad ground conditions, and each contestant shall have the option to rerun or keep her recorded time. The committee secretary and all other officials shall try to notify everyone; however, lack of notification shall not be grounds to change results.
Exhibitions are prohibited.
RUNNING OUT OF TURN – any contestant that runs out of turn will result in disqualification, unless judge deems mistake made by announcer or gate judge.

Incentive Barrel Racing [Contents]

This event shall be held within the Open Barrel Racing.
The 2D placings will be determined by a .7 second split from the overall fast time, which is also the Open winning time.
You may enter only one time per rodeo. (Exception is at enter 2 times rodeos)
The payoff will be split 70% of the pot to the open and 30% to the 2nd D.
If a rodeo committee sponsors separate added money to the 2D, 100% of the added money in the open will go to the open. Payoff in each section will be according to the barrel racing payoff schedule.
An individual barrel racer may not place in both the open and the Incentive (2D), (Exception is the enter 2x rodeos).

Barrel Racing GCPRA Finals Qualification [Contents]

Barrel Racing GCPRA Finals Qualification- There will 30 different contestants compete at the GCPRA Finals in the Open and Incentive Divisions. There will be 15 from the Open Standings, and 15 from the Incentive Standings.
Open Qualifications- The Top 15 Money Earners that have competed at the required number of rodeos (6 in the 2019 season) will have first eligibility to enter and compete at the finals. If for any reason any of the first eligible Open Contestants do not enter, the next eligible contestant who entered as an alternate will fill that spot.
Incentive Qualifications- The Top 15 Money Earners that are NOT also eligible for the Open Division will have first eligibility to enter and compete at the finals. (So for example, if someone is in the top 15 in both the Open and Incentive, they will only be able to enter in their Open spot). If for any reason any of the first eligible Incentive Contestants do not enter, the next available eligible contestant who entered as an alternate will fill that spot.
The Finals will be run and paid out as our normal rodeos through the year are, with the fastest time winning the Open Division, and .7 off fastest time winning the Incentive. The Average will be fastesttime on 2 wins the Open Average, and 1.4 seconds off the fast average time will win the Incentive.
The Finals will be run with a random draw of all 30 contestants – with a mix of random 15 running in slack and 15 running in the performance, then in round 2 reversing order where the 15 from slack will now run in the performance and the 15 from performance running in slack.
Money will be counted towards the Year End and All Around standings only if won in the division you were “qualified” in. So if a contestant was in the top 15 money won/rodeos attended, and was only able to enter their Open spot, their money will count towards whichever standings that they win said money in. If a person qualifying only in the Open wins money in the Incentive, that money will not count for
any year end standings. If a person that only qualified in the Incentive wins money once inthe Open, but also places in the Incentive only the money that was won in the Incentive will count foryear end standings.
Incentive points do not count towards year end standings at co-sanctioned rodeo’s that are not GCPRA formatted.

Team Roping [Contents]

The line judge should position himself at the score line on the same side as the header. Score line to be the same as the length of box.
The maximum weight for cattle that are used in the team roping is 650 pounds per head with a minimum weight of 450 pounds.
No scoreline shall exceed the length of the box without prior approval of Event Director.
Contestants will start from behind a barrier. Team roper behind barrier must throw first loop at head. Each contestant will be allowed to carry but one (1) rope. Each team is allowed one (1) loop at the head and one (1) loop at the heels. Roping without turning loose of the rope will be considered a catch. At two or more go round rodeos (including finals), team ropers are allowed three loops.
Requirements for Roping: Field judges shall drop flag when steer is roped by its head and heels, and both horses are facing steer in line with ropes dallied and tight. Horses’ front feet must be on the ground and ropers must be mounted for the flag to drop. Steer must be standing up when roped by head and heels.
Steer must not be handled too roughly at any time. Ropers may be fined if in the opinion of the field judge they have intentionally done so.
Broken rope or dropped rope will be considered no time or if contestant intentionally dismounts during the contestant run, team will be disqualified.
Contestants may enter two times with different partners or by changing ends with the same partner, a team may not enter the incentive and open as same team in same configuration. Ropers that are dallying must have a full wrap around horn.
Contestant may only take 2 spots in any one performance, unless performance is unable to be filled.
Neither contestant may remove illegal catch by hand. Should head or heel loop become legal by the time the field flag judge drops his flag, time will be counted.
Legal catches—There will only be three (3) legal head catches:
Around both horns
Half a head
Around the neck
If Hondo passes over one (1) horn then catch is illegal. If loop crosses itself in a head catch, it is illegal. Any heel catch behind both shoulders is legal if rope goes up heels. Only one (1) hind foot caught receives five (5) second penalty. Failure to head and change direction of steer before heeling (i.e. cross firing) is illegal. Front feet in heel catch are illegal.
Throwing Heel Loop: The direction of the steer’s body must be changed before the heel loop can be thrown. However, if the steer stops, it must only be moving forward for the heel loop to be legal. Any heel loop thrown before the completion of the initial switch will be considered a crossfire and no time will be recorded.
If a team roper’s partner does not show up for a rodeo, he/she is allowed to substitute a partner from contestants already entered in rodeo. I.e. another team roper only entered once, a calf roper, etc. However, number of teams entered may not be increased.
All team roping cattle must be drawn.
Team Roping is considered one event when accounting for All-Around Standings. Whether heading or heeling only the contestants’ top placing for a rodeo will be counted for All-Around points.
In the event that there is one go and only two loops are permitted there will be a 30 second time limit. Failure to catch with the two loops within the 30 second limit will result in disqualification.
Tie On Rule- Any male contestant that is 60 years or older and any age female may tie on.

Incentive Team Roping [Contents]

#12 Incentive Team Roping is a true incentive.
#12 Incentive will use the USTRC numbers.
Current cards will be shown to the rodeo secretary.
If a team is in question, payoff will be held until numbers can be verified with the USTRC.
Incentive Team Roping Director will call the USTRC to verify numbers in question.
Any team that knowingly ropes as a #12 that is not one, will be fined $150.00 per person, and cannot compete in a GCPRA rodeo or rope in the #12 incentive until all fines are paid. In addition, any winnings will be forfeited and haveto be repaid before entering again.
If a payout is paid to a #12 team that is over a #12 and it is paid, the money does not count in the standings at any GCPRA rodeo’s, jackpots or co- sanctions.
17% of the incentive entry fees is to be added to the open payoff.
Incentive points do not count towards year end standings at co-sanctioned rodeo’s that are not GCPRA formatted

Rules Not Addressed [Contents]

Any rule not covered in this rulebook will be decided by referring to the current PRCA Bylaws and Rules. However, if the rule is covered in the GCPRA rules and it conflicts with a rule in the PRCA rulebook, the GCPRA rule will prevail. If a rule is not available in either set of rules (PRCA or GCPRA) and a decision needs to be made at the rodeo, the Association directors available at the rodeo will determine the rule as a ground rule for that rodeo. Any decision made as a ground rule will be upheld for that rodeo, but may be presented to the Board of Directors to be modified and/or voted on and included in the Association Rules for future rodeos. If no Association directors are immediately available, the judges of the rodeo will make the determination. Any member who may disagree with a ruling may present their concerns to the Board in writing to be presented at the next board meeting. Arguing with the judges, directors, secretaries, or arena director will not be tolerated at a rodeo.Member will be fined for this action.
Photographers must purchase a GCPRA Working Card Membership in order to photograph any GCPRA approved rodeo’s. The board of director’s will vote on approved photographers to work the finals.

Additional Year End Awards Guidelines

Year end awards will be given to the outstanding contract acts in the following categories if association funds permit them; announcer, bullfighter, clown/barrelman and pickup man, stock contractor, rodeo.
The Announcer and Clown/Barrelman Of The Year shall be selected from a list of all Announcers and Clown/Barrelman that have worked GCPRA lead sanctioned rodeos for current season. The ballot will be available for GCPRA Finals Qualifying Contestants, and voted on at GCPRA Finals.
To qualify for awards you must have a current working card or be included in the stock contractor membership.
The bullfighter for the finals rodeo and year-end award shall be selected by the top fifteen (15) bull riders and the stock contractors providing stock for the finals rodeo.
The pickup men for the finals rodeo and year-end award shall be selected by the top fifteen (15) roughstock riders in the bareback riding and in the saddle bronc riding and the stock contractors providing stock for the finals rodeo.
Horse of the year in Bareback, Saddle Bronc and Bull riding will be voted on by the top 15 contestants and stock contractors providing stock for the finals rodeo in each event. Horse or Bull selected must have performed at a GCPRA rodeo for said season. Awards will be awarded at the banquet and the Stock Contractors will be recognized.
Notes………..
ADDS TO RULE BOOK
1)
Incentive Tie Down Ropers - You need to fill out the Incentive Tie Down Application and submit it BEFORE entries for the rodeo you wish to compete in as an Incentive Tie Down Roper. Non-Members CANNOT be Incentive Tie Down Ropers. Once approved by the panel, you will be charged to $25 fee to become an eligible Incentive Tie Down Roper. It is your responsibility to read the rules on Incentive Tie Down, and know that you can be bumped from an Incentive Tie Down roper by the selected panel.
INCENTIVE FORM MUST BE FILLED OUT ANNUALLY FOR EACH NEW SEASON
Incentive Tie Down Rules/Guidlines:
Effective 1/1/2023
1.The GCPRA Incentive Calf Roping is open to qualified MEMBERS only. Permit or non-members must enter as an Open Calf Roper.
2. Members wishing to compete as an Incentive Calf Roper MUST complete and submit and Incentive Calf Roper application to the GCPRA state office 7 days prior to entries opening for the desired rodeo. The GCPRA office will forward all applications to the Incentive Calf Roping Director for review and approval by the Director and designated panel. If the application is approved, the member will be charged a $25 processing fee to be collected by the State Secretary or Rodeo Secretary.
3. All decisions on a ropers Incentive status will be made by a 3 person panel. This panel will consist ofof the Incentive Calf Roping Director, the Open Calf Roping Director, and another designated Open Calf Roper. A 2/3 vote by the panel will determine the ropers incentive or open status.
4.The Incentive Calf Roping is open to all GCPRA members regardless of age. When evaluation a member who submits and application; The 3 person panel should take into consideration the following:
a) general horsemanship
b) catch ability with calf rope
c) slack handling / holding slack
d) dismount speed and ability
e) blocking and flanking ability
f) calf tying
5.) In Regard to ropers who have been granted Incentive status who are under 18 years old. These ropers will be evaluated by the 3 person panel at the beginning of each season. At this time the panel will vote upon their incentive status. Furthermore, at the halfway mark of the season (this is determined by the previous years rodeo count ie, if the rodeo count was 20 in the previous season; the halfway mark of the current season would be 10) these ropers WILL be re-evaluated and voted upon again by the 3 person panel. The panel should consider the following when determining the ropers continued incentive status:
a) How much money the roper has won in the open calf roping. (Does it look like they are going to make the open finals at this point?)
b) How many rodeos, and which rodeos has the roper placed at in the open calf roping. (Have they placed in multiple rodeos in the open? If so, were they big rodeos with lots of open entries or small rodeos with minimal entries?)
c) How fast the roper was when they place in the open calf roping. (Did they tie the calf in 8 or 9? Or did they tie one in 12 or 13?)
d) How much incentive money the roper has won at that point. (Do they have a commanding lead in the incentive standings?) If at the ½ way mark a ropers incentive status is confirmed, they will be allowed to finish the season as such.
6.) All ropers 60 years and older will be granted incentive status regardless of ability.
7. To be moved out of the Open Calf Roping and into the Incentive Calf Roping, a written appeal along with an Incentive Calf Roping application must be sent to the GCPRA office for review by the Incentive Calf Roping Director and designated panel.
8.) 15% of the Incentive Calf Roping entry fee money is to be added to the Open Calf Roping payout by the Rodeo Secretary.
TWO
NEW FOR 2025
Below, please find new changes for the 2025 Season:
Barrel Racing Entry fees will change to $85
Incentive Team Roping will now be a straight 11.5 (No longer will it be an 11.5 or 12.5 Mixed; and there will be no number caps)
Incentive Team Roping fees will now be $150/side, making it be 80% back to the payout pot.
THREE
CONTESTANTS! - Please remember that co-sanctioned rodeos only count for event standings in the events that are the EXACT same format as GCPRA format. Any event that is not, will not count for event standings. Co-Sanction rodeos DO NOT count for Rodeo Count; and they do not count towards All Around Standings unless the WHOLE rodeo is the EXACT format and has ALL GCPRA events.
FOUR
To Turn Out or Vet/Med Out you must fill out eh Turn Out Form (or you can call in to the State Office or Rodeo Secretary) 2 HOURS PRIOR TO THE START OF YOUR PERFORMANCE OR SLACK
Draw Out & Turn Out Rules
1. Members entered in a GCPRA rodeo (by self or another person) who is unable to attend must make notification to the rodeo secretary via text or call or email, a minimum of two (2) hours prior to start of rodeo performance. The phone number and email will have ability to take messages with time and date to verify the notification. Even with notified turn outs, members will be responsible for their entry fees, but any fine will be waived. If notification is not made and contestant is entered in a performance, the member will pay entry fee and a $25.00 fine. If a turnout occurs during a slack, the fine will be waived but the entry fee must be paid. Draw outs without a medical excuse require that entry fees be paid.
2. In the event of a medical emergency, members must notify by phone as noted above for turnouts and must specify “medical” or notify rodeo secretary before stock is turned out. A doctor or vet release must be postmarked to the GCPRA secretary within 5 days after the final performance of the last rodeo the contestant doctor or vet released out of. Contestant then cannot compete for 5 days after the final performance of the rodeo the contestant doctored or vetted out of. (i.e.- - 4th of July rodeos - - If entered in more than one rodeo, you cannot vet or doctor release one without vet or doctor releasing all rodeos.) A Member may only be allowed 2 Medical/Vet Releases for a Season. The member with a medical release will not be liable for fees and a fine will not be imposed unless written release is not received by office within 5-day period. If a contestant fails to get the release into the office within the 5-day period, they will be assessed a fine of $25 plus owe their entry fees. Entry fees for this member will not be added to the jackpot.
3. A contestant can doctor or vet release performance one event and still compete in another event.
4. Any member refusing to pay fees and/or fines will be put on the suspended list and will not be allowed to enter any GCPRA rodeos. All moneys accumulated toward the year-end awards and the finals rodeo will be withdrawn until restitution is made.
5. Should a member end the rodeo year on the suspended list, their violation will be carried to the following year and he/she will not be allowed to purchase a card until violations are paid.
6. The medical emergency release applies to personal disability and not to that of any livestock. Vets release, at the discretion of the board, will apply to livestock.
7. A maximum of 2 doctor or vet releases will be allowed each year for any individual member. 8. Any non-member not complying with draw out or turnout rules will be fined $25.00 to be paid at next GCPRA rodeo entered. Any non-member who has been turned out and fined may not enter another GCPRA event as a non- member. In order to enter any further GCPRA sanctioned events they must pay their fine and purchase a GCPRA card. Vet releases apply to all timed events. 9. A contestant is considered officially entered in a rodeo at the close of rodeo entry books for that rodeo and will be responsible for turnout fees and/or fines if he/she draws out any time after rodeo entry books close

Grand CanyonPro Rodeo Association

General Statements [Contents]

Sanction Rules [Contents]

Stock Contractors [Contents]

Rodeo Entry System

Rodeo Secretaries [Contents]

Rodeo Judges [Contents]

Timers [Contents]

General Rules [Contents]

st

nd

rd

Rodeo Entry [Contents]

Draw Out & Turn Out Rules [Contents]

Pay-Off [Contents]

General Judging Rules [Contents]

Riding Event Rules & Judging Guidelines [Contents]

Re-Rides [Contents]

Bareback Bronc Riding [Contents]

Saddle Bronc Riding [Contents]

Bull Riding [Contents]

Timed Event Rules & Judging Guidelines [Contents]

Barrier [Contents]

Beating the Barrier [Contents]

Additional Judging Guidelines [Contents]

Tie Down Roping [Contents]

Incentive Tie Down Roping [Contents]

Additional Judging Guidelines [Contents]

Six Second Procedure [Contents]

Ladies Breakaway Roping [Contents]

Steer Wrestling [Contents]

Ladies Barrel Racing [Contents]

Reruns [Contents]

Disqualification [Contents]

Back-To-Back Runs [Contents]

Ground Preparation [Contents]

Barrel Pattern [Contents]

Marking Barrels [Contents]

Electric Timers [Contents]

Electric Timer Failure [Contents]

Additional Judging Guidelines [Contents]

Incentive Barrel Racing [Contents]

Barrel Racing GCPRA Finals Qualification [Contents]

Team Roping [Contents]

Incentive Team Roping [Contents]

Rules Not Addressed [Contents]

Additional Year End Awards Guidelines

Grand Canyon
Pro Rodeo Association