Step 1: Rope Mechanics & Coil Management           

    Before you can throw, you must know your gear. This phase ensures your hands work automatically.

• The Grip: Master holding the hondo (the eye of the rope) and managing the excess coils safely in your off-hand.

• Loop Building: Learn how to feed rope into your loop to quickly adjust its size.

• Coiling: Practice neatly rebuilding your coils after a throw so you are always ready for the next run.

 

    Step 2: The Ground Swing & Plane 

    A great catch starts with a perfect swing. We shift the power from your shoulder to your wrist.

• Wrist Roll: Learn the precise rolling motion that keeps the rope spinning with minimal effort.

• The Plane: Keep your loop flat and level with the ground to prevent it from collapsing in the air.

• Tip Control: Practice guiding the tip of your loop so it naturally tracks toward your target.

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    Step 3: Delivery & Target Practice

    Now we introduce the target. You will start close to build confidence and accuracy.

• Stationary Dummy: Stand 5 to 7 feet from a plastic steer head to focus purely on your release.

• The Release: Learn to push your hand forward, letting the loop fly open naturally.

• Follow-Through: Keep your hand pointing at the target post-throw to ensure the loop stays open until impact.

 

    Step 4: Slack & Distance 

    Catching the target is only half the battle; securing it requires timing.

• Pulling Slack: Master the instant, backward snap of your right hand to close the loop around the horns.

• Intro to Dallying: Practice wrapping the slack around a stationary saddle horn stand safely.

• Increasing Range: Step back to 10–12 feet while maintaining your accuracy and loop shape.

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    Step 5: Introduction to Movement

    Real cattle don't stand still. We finish the program by adding motion.

• Sled Work: Practice your timing on a dummy pulled slowly by a quad or tractor.

• Footwork: Walk forward while swinging and throwing to simulate the rhythm of a moving horse.

• Positioning: Learn exactly where to place yourself relative to the target's hips for the highest percentage catch.