The rise of rope horse futurities has brought significant money and interest to the sport, similar to the evolution seen in barrel racing over the past two decades. Breeders are now focusing on pairing horses proven in barrel racing and breeding for traits that make them successful in the event, resulting in continually broken arena records with the caliber of horses being raised today. Ropers have found success on horses that may not have worked out in other disciplines, leading to the growth of true rope horse breeding in elite futurity settings.
The Royal Crown event featured stellar payouts, with Miles Baker and his mount Relentless PYC, also known as Nala, dominating the Six and Under Heading category. Baker also notched wins in the Six And Under Semi-Pro Heeling and Intermediate Heeling categories, partnering with Trevor Brazile on horses in the Relentless Remuda. Haven and Shelby Meged excelled in breakaway and tie-down roping, with Haven winning the Four and Under Calf Roping category and Shelby cleaning house in the breakaway roping events.
Overall, the Royal Crown event showcased the success of breeding for specific traits in rope horses, leading to impressive payouts and dominant performances in various roping categories. The focus on pairing proven horses and breeding for success in specific events has led to a new facet of the sport that is beginning to show out in elite futurity settings, similar to the evolution seen in barrel racing over the past two decades.