In calf roping, what technique is primarily used to secure the calf once caught?

In calf roping, once the calf is caught with a lariat, the primary technique used to secure it is the hooey knot. This knot is essential as it allows the roper to quickly and securely tie off the calf’s legs to prevent it from escaping after being roped. The hooey knot is designed to tighten when pulled, ensuring that the calf remains restrained during the rest of the roping process and is a critical part of a successful and safe calf roping execution.

Other techniques and knots have their purposes, but they do not fulfill the same role as the hooey knot in calf roping. The lariat throw is the method used to catch the calf, while a quick release is typically not used for securing the calf but rather can relate to the ease of releasing the rope if necessary. The figure-eight knot is also not used for securing calves in this context, as it is more common in other types of rope work. Therefore, the hooey knot is the most relevant and effective technique in this specific scenario.