On the edge of common sense: Ropers measure time in bronc years

Calf ropers are a peculiar group of talented cowboys. I would characterize them as more serious about their work than most. They have hobbies like small appliance repair and breeding orchids. Their calling seems to draw more of the accountant/engineering sort of mentality. Dean Oliver, Tom Ferguson, Dee Pickett, Mike Johnson and Cody Ohl are representative. They are modest, focused, hard working and responsible. Of course, every now and then there's a Roy Cooper or Joe Beaver who crashes the party, but in every bunch of good, hardworking border collies, there's always a couple that chase cars. Calf ropers have pretty good career longevity compared to, say, bull doggers and bareback men. Chad told me of his conversation with one of our old-timer rodeo friends. Chad noted the old-timer's son was entering the Pendleton Rodeo this year in calf roping. The dad kinda snorted and said, "He's pressin' his luck, he's nearly 50 years old!" "Wait a minute," said Chad, "You were 56 the last time you entered the saddle bronc, and that was in bronc years!" Bronc years is a measure of time much like dog years. A dog year is equivalent to 7 human years. A bronc year is equivalent to two roper years. In other words, a roper of any kind should be able to compete in rodeo twice as long as a rough stock rider...Amarillo.com