One of the cruelest rodeo events is calf roping. MFA’s investigation uncovered frightened baby calves being lassoed around the neck while moving at speeds as fast as 25 mph, being slammed to the ground with great force, then having their feet tied together to immobilize them. In some cases the lasso would miss the head and end up catching the animal’s legs or stomach. MFA investigators documented calves stumbling head first into the ground, presumably causing neck and back injuries.

Injuries caused by calf roping include paralysis from spinal cord injuries, severed tracheas, as well as broken backs, necks, and legs. According to a PRCA rodeo judge, “I have seen many calves injured or killed. For example, ...a few years ago, 22 calves had broken legs.”

The inherent cruelty of calf roping is illustrated by its criminal status in the state of Rhode Island and the city of Baltimore. Even some supporters of the rodeo object to calf roping because it is so cruel. One professional rider told an MFA investigator that he had serious problems with the event and said he would never take part in it due to its violent nature.

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