Arizona’s allure extends beyond its picturesque landscapes, drawing a vibrant community of ropers seeking sunshine and spirited competition during the winter months. This sun-drenched state has become a haven for “snowbirds” – individuals who migrate from colder climates to enjoy the perfect weather, daily jackpots, diverse dining, and excellent company that define Arizona’s thriving roping scene. For many, it’s a cherished tradition, a blend of passion for the sport and the pursuit of a lifestyle that thrives in the warmth.
The Allure of Arizona for Seasoned Ropers
For ropers like Buster Boyd, 76, from Eagle Point, Oregon, Arizona represents a long-standing commitment to the sport. Boyd’s journey began in 1995 after winning a saddle at the US Finals. He discovered the allure of Arizona’s roping circuits and initially stayed for extended periods, eventually building a home in Morristown in 2008. “We could get away and do it, and some years it was really tight,” Boyd reflects, highlighting the dedication and financial commitment involved. Despite the challenges, he has experienced significant success, winning prestigious events like the Sunshine Classic and the Title Fights. His six decades of roping experience underscore a deep connection to the sport and the community it fosters.
Marvin Kleinbert, 68, from Edmonton, Alberta, Canada, echoes this sentiment. He has been a regular visitor for the past six years, spending up to six months annually in Arizona to rope and escape the Canadian winter. As an auctioneer and contract worker in the oil and gas industry, Kleinbert finds solace and camaraderie in Cave Creek, where he has purchased a home. “I have friends and family there throughout the winter,” he shares, emphasizing the strong social network that keeps him returning.
Floyd Marshall, 78, from Tuttle, Oklahoma, fulfilled a long-held desire to experience Arizona’s roping scene in 2000. A retired residential home builder, Marshall was drawn by friends’ accounts of the exceptional roping opportunities. His first foray into a USTRC roping in Scottsdale was met with success, placing second with a randomly drawn partner. This initial positive experience led to a consistent return, culminating in the purchase of a home in 2002. Marshall describes Arizona as his “bread and butter” during the winter, a place where he could rope daily and forge lifelong friendships with people from around the globe.
A Winter Home Away From Home
The appeal of Arizona’s roping culture is not limited to those who have dedicated their lives to the sport. Randy Baker, 58, from New Town, North Dakota, sought refuge from the harsh winters and the opportunity to continue roping. With a brother living in Cave Creek, Baker was familiar with the numerous ropings and favorable climate. Having retired from federal programs and ranching, he now enjoys the “awesome place” that allows him to “rope through the winter months.”
Rick Steed, 66, from Thatcher, Utah, and his wife have been spending their winters in Cave Creek for the past four years. Steed, a retired rancher who also spent 35 years in the aerospace industry, values the comfortable environment for both roping and leisure. “It’s more friendly for the women to go shopping instead of just sitting at dirty arenas,” he notes, appreciating the broader appeal of the area. Their routine involves daily roping from November to April, with a practice arena at their home.
Shelly Moore, 61, from Mount Vernon, Missouri, and her husband Jack have embraced Arizona’s winter roping scene for the last two years. After purchasing a house in 2018, they adopted a routine of flying out mid-week to compete in ropings on Wednesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays. Moore highlights the strong sense of community, stating, “We’ve made so many friends out there, and the same people we see in the winter, we rope with in Cheyenne and Jackson Hole for the World Series.” This interconnectedness across different roping circuits emphasizes the unifying power of the sport and the shared passion that draws these individuals to Arizona year after year.
