Ranch sorting has evolved rapidly over the past decade, both in participation and in the level of competition. With that growth came higher stakes—and a greater need for accountability.
Cinch RSNC began developing an official review system roughly 10 years ago. At the time, disagreements over calls weren’t uncommon and, without video evidence, there was no way to confirm whether a call was correct.
“Now, with the review system, everyone can know that the right call has been made,” explained Logan Wolfe, Cinch RSNC Event Director. “Our goal is to provide a consistent and fair sport for contestants to compete in, and this system helps accomplish that.”
Eyes on the Pen at All Times
At the heart of the RSNC review system are strategically placed cameras focused on the middle of the sorting pen.
“The cameras are watching the gate in the center of the pen because that is where all of the scoring and timing calls are made,” Wolfe said. “Having the camera on the line gives us the best view to be able to determine what the correct call is.”
By maintaining a clear visual of the gate, judges and officials can accurately verify critical moments that affect scoring, time and order.
“The review system has been one of the biggest advancements in the sport,” Wolfe continued. “As the level of competition continues to increase and the stakes rise, the level of accuracy and accountability must rise with it.”
One advantage ranch sorting has is the nature of its calls. Many decisions are based on clear, factual outcomes rather than subjective judgment. With the review system in place, contestants can have complete confidence that every effort is made to ensure the correct call is made every time.
What Officials Look for During a Review
Not every element of a run is reviewable. During an official review, judges and officials focus on specific, clearly defined criteria.
Reviewable items include:
- The number of cattle sorted within the time limit
- The official time
- The order of cattle sorted
- Any duplicate numbers called
If video footage does not provide a clear answer, the original call made by the judge remains in effect.
Requesting a Review
Any contestant who believes an incorrect call has been made has the right to request a review in a timely manner.
“All reviews must be requested during that go or within the first five teams of the following go round, excluding the short round,” Wolfe said.
Additional timing guidelines apply:
- Reviews from go-rounds prior to the short round must be requested before the short round begins or within 10 minutes of the short round draw, whichever comes first
- In the short round, all reviews must be requested before results are announced
- If a contestant believes there is a clerical error in final results, the review must be requested immediately after the final results are announced The process for initiating a review is straightforward and accessible and contestants can ask for a review by filling out the form available at the gate.
This article appears in the Winter 2026 issue of The Ranch Sorter.
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—H&R—