Q&A: FFA catches at Calf Scramble
Mar 13, 2015
Mar. 7-9 was the Rodeo’s Calf Scramble. Sophomores Callie Heggeness, Devin Bollman and Dallas Hunter all successfully caught their calves. These FFA members competed to coax, catch and halter one of the calves across the winner’s line. The winners were able to purchase a breeding animal to be raised and shown at livestock shows.
Q&A: Calf Scrambler Devin Bollman
Q: How many times have you participated in the calf scramble?
I’ve done it a total of 6 times: once in Austin, Fort Worth, San Antonio, Harris County and twice in Houston.
Q: What do you like about this event?
Scrambling is fun. It’s a rush because of the time frame and danger coinciding with the adrenaline.
Q: How many attempts did it take to catch a calf?
Three.
Q: How hard is it to catch a calf? Why?
It is very hard, once you finally catch the calf you’re beat, but you still have to halter it and drag it into the square.
Q: How do you prepare for an event like this?
Run. Run a lot.
Q: Do you get nervous during the event?
I’m nervous before, but as soon as the hat drops, there’s no time for nerves.
Q: How much money do you get for catching a calf this year?
It’s $1,500 in Houston.
Q: Did you use the money to buy a heifer or a steer? (*A heifer is female cattle. Steer are male cattle)
It’s the scrambler’s choice; heifer is what I’m getting.
Q: What do you do with the heifer or steer you got?
I’m going to show her and breed her.
Q: What’s an interesting experience you had while attempting to catch a calf in the calf scramble?
The calf I caught dragged me around with its tail. Once I got it, I climbed on top of it while it was still standing.
Q: Do you have anything else you would like to add?
Calf scrambling is not about catching and getting the money. The true winners are the ones who put forth the most effort despite what the outcome may be.
