A Boon for Boomers
In countless ways, the Baby Boomer generation is the lifeblood of recreational team roping. A generation defined by their significant contributions to the economy, now—having reached their retirement years—many Baby Boomers, aging from 57 to 75, are hitting their team roping stride as they reap the rewards of successful careers by investing their hard-earned dollars and time in good horses, the practice pen and all their favorite jackpots.
Paradoxically, what also accompanies these golden years are the aches and pains of aging. Cartilage that once allowed for ropers to swing a leg up or throw a powerful loop ceases to exist between joints and bones or injuries sustained in younger years make their true mark known and demand the body quit anything that might aggravate them.
Often, it is exactly at that point—when ropers are faced with the harsh reality that there’s a limited number of runs left—that they seek medical solutions and are regularly told their only option is surgery. And while surgery is certainly worth consideration and research and may, in fact, be just that—the only option—it turns out there may be other options, too.
The Treatment
Rachel O’Grady is the president and founder of
