Champions' Team Roping Clinic in Heber: Buhler & Richard Teach Headers and Heelers

On the edge of the Wasatch Range in Heber City, Utah, a two-day team roping clinic turns a working arena into a classroom of speed, timing, and old-school horsemanship. Meet at 875 Iron Horse Dr Ste C, Park City, UT 84060, then head to the practice grounds at 415 S Fld Rd, Heber City, UT, where champions Jeremy Buhler and Rhen Richard teach drills designed to sharpen headers and heelers alike. Whether you ride weekends or chase pro-caliber scores, this clinic compresses years of ring experience into focused coaching across two full days (8 AM–5 PM).

The scene is honest and rugged: an outdoor arena ringed by hayfields and the foothills of the Wasatch, wind that smells of cut grass and leather, and horses tuned to respond to milliseconds. Key features include the main practice arena, roping boxes, and dedicated warm-up pens. The landscape’s open fields and nearby stands of aspen and sagebrush make for clear sightlines that let instructors watch footwork, swing, and timing from the ground. Expect practical drills—flagged headers, live cattle work, team drills—and one-on-one feedback that addresses swing path, mount dynamics, and horse cues.

What sets this clinic apart is the instruction team. Buhler’s world-class heeling precision pairs with Richard’s longevity and multi-event savvy to cover both technical finesse and competitive strategy. Warbonnet Hats supplies an included Warbonnet Felt Hat with a lifetime guarantee—a tangible reminder of the event’s professional caliber. Meals are provided; breakfast and lunch anchor long practice days so riders can stay focused.

Logistics are straightforward: two full days of instruction, limited to 30 people (15 headers, 15 heelers), ages 10–70. Reserve quickly; the format is hands-on and spots fill fast. If plans change, contact Van Kelly at 435-671-0825 for cancellations or refunds.

Sessions are built around a steady progression: group warm-ups, paired header-heeler drills, live-cattle sequences, and focused hour-long breakouts where each rider gets direct correction. Instructors rotate between headers and heelers so every minute in the box is counted. Safety briefings happen each morning and riders are asked to arrive 30 minutes early to sign in and get fitted. Horses are managed on-site; riders should bring personal tack that fits well and basic protective gear. For cancellations or last-minute needs call Van Kelly at 435-671-0825. Plan to film a run for later review if you can.

This clinic is more than technique; it’s about reading livestock, communicating with a mount, and learning routines that win in the arena. For visitors, it’s a deep-dive into the valley’s working-ranch culture—where competition and tradition meet daily horsemanship. If you want to fast-track improvement under two proven champions, this is a concentrated, practical opportunity to elevate skill, confidence, and competitive readiness while riding in a classic Utah valley setting.