What is "hooey" in the context of tie-down roping?

The term "hooey" in the context of tie-down roping refers specifically to the knot used to secure a calf's legs together after it has been caught. This is a critical part of the event where the roper must apply the hooey to immobilize the calf, allowing them to complete their run. The effectiveness and correctness of tying the hooey are integral to the roper's performance and can affect their score or time.

The other options do not align with the definition of "hooey." The time limit for each contestant relates to competition rules but does not describe a physical component related to the knots or techniques in tie-down roping. The saddle, while an important piece of equipment for any rodeo event, is not associated with the term "hooey." Lastly, the judge's signal to start the event is more about the procedures of competition rather than a terminology specific to tie-down roping. Understanding "hooey" helps in grasping the techniques practiced in tie-down roping and highlights the skill involved in wrestling a calf efficiently and correctly.