Goat Tying

A participant chasing after a goat and grabbing its legs.

The competitor runs to the goat (By Rob Bixby - CC license)

Goat tying is a rodeo sport that involves quickly dismounting from a horse, catching a goat, and then tying three of its legs together. The participant enters on a horse at a fast speed, and then dismounts from the horse as it slows down. The participant then attempts to grab the goat, turn the goat over while it is on the ground, and tie three legs of its together with a small string. The participant must step back and wait for six seconds before the result is counted. As this is a timed competition, the fastest time wins the competition.

Is this activity known by any other names?

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What are the origins of the activity abroad and in Canada?

Rodeo sports developed from cattle ranching tasks in the western United States. These sports became professionalized in the late 1800s as several major competitions, including the Calgary Stampede, were established. Their popularity has grown recently in the GTA, with upwards of 50 rodeo events taking place over the calendar year. Competitive goat tying was practiced as early as the 1950s in the United States, from where it quickly spread to Alberta and then other parts of Canada as part of rodeo tours.

Who takes part?

Males and females of diverse ages may participate, although many rodeo athletes are White females from rural areas. Historically, goat tying was designed as a female event to complement the predominantly male event of tie-down calf roping.

When does it occur / How often do you take part?

Rodeo competitions occur throughout the year. The Ontario High School Rodeo Association hosts several competitions throughout the school year. The Ontario Riding Association hosts professional and amateur rodeo events on a monthly basis. Professional rodeo circuits also host events in the GTA area occasionally during the year.

Are there any organized clubs, groups, organizations or leagues?

The Ontario High School Rodeo Association; Ontario Rodeo Association; Canadian Rodeo Association

Cultural Significance

While rodeo sports do not hold cultural significance with specific ethnocultural groups, these activities and their associated “cowboy culture” can be viewed as symbolically important in some rural Canadian communities.

Is there anything else we should know?

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A participant chasing after a goat and grabbing its legs.

The competitor runs to the goat (By Rob Bixby - CC license)