Is a tall horse a liability in roping? I would think it would be generally good, because longer legs could mean a quicker break...although not always, of course.

I have only ever talked to one competitive-type roper, but he said he much prefers a horse 15hh (14-14.2)...but he was the person who jumps on and off (calf roping I guess?)

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In team roping, the head horse ( the rider throwing the head loop on a steer) is typically the big, strong stouter made horse. He has to have some speed also. He has to be able to take the jerk of the steer when his rope comes tight, and drag his steer.
The heel horse ( the rider throwing the loop around the steer's hind feet) is typically smaller, but still stout. He has to be able to stop and hold the steer, but he doesnt need to be as big as a head horse.Alot of reined cowhorses go onto the heel side.
A calf roping horse, is usually smaller, again alot of cutting rejects or reined cowhorses make great calf horses. They arent very tall, so your not jumping off of Mt. Si, they are quick out of the box, will watch and face a calf and they can stop. Calf roping horses is one where a tall horse, is definatelly a disadvantage.