2.2 - ELITE TRIAD Classification System
A classification system is used to limit the margin of error in setting roping divisions. Each roper is classified or rated with a number 1 through 10, according to his or her ability to rope. No roper will be numbered higher than 10. Your classification number is your ability rating as judged by your peers and/or performance based. In order to fine-tune the TRIAD Classification System, USTRC has implemented the “Elite” system. By definition an Elite roper is someone who has proven by performance to have a competitive advantage (or disadvantage) among his or her classification group but is not a full classification number off.

Headers classified as a TRIAD #4 through TRIAD #6 will be eligible to receive an Elite classification. For example, a #5 header who has proven to have a competitive advantage will be reclassified as an Elite #5. Moreover, a #5 header who has proven to struggle, but would be too dominant as a #4, would be reclassified as an Elite #4. Therefore ropers can move up to an Elite status or down to an Elite status. The classification categories for Headers will be as follows: #1, #2, #3, #4, Elite #4, #5, Elite #5, #6, Elite #6, #7, #8, and #9. Heelers classified as a TRIAD #4 through TRIAD #9 will be eligible to receive an Elite classification. For example, a #6 heeler who has proven to have a competitive advantage will be reclassified as an Elite #6. Moreover a #6 heeler who has proven to struggle, but would be too dominant as a #5, would be reclassified as an Elite #5. Therefore ropers can move up to an Elite status or down to an Elite status. The classification categories for Heelers will be as follows: #1, #2, #3, #4, Elite #4, #5, Elite #5, #6, Elite #6, #7, Elite #7, #8, Elite #8, #9, Elite #9 and #10.

The effect of the Elite system will further level the playing field by preventing two Elite ropers from partnering together unless they give up a division. For example, an Elite #5 header won't be allowed to enter the #10 division with an Elite #5 heeler. Instead, they will have to enter the #11 division. However, an Elite #5 header will be allowed to enter the #10 division with a #5 heeler. In other words, the sum of your classification and your partner's classification determines the division you are eligible to enter unless BOTH ropers are classified as “Elite”. This procedure will more closely define the caliber of each roping division.