Saddle up for International Rodeo domination

28 October 2008

Saddle up and get ready for the biggest battle yet as six countries compete for rodeo domination at the International Rodeo on Saturday 15 November.

Thirty-nine of the world’s best cowboys and girls from the USA, Canada, Brazil, England and Australia will compete against the Kiwis as man versus beast in the biggest wild west stand-off ever staged in New Zealand.

The New Zealand Cup and Show Week finale will go out with a bang in this three hour spectacular bucking performance.

Ashburton rodeo star Steve Houston, is joining the New Zealand International Rodeo for the first time this year and is looking forward to competing in this year’s International Rodeo in Christchurch.

“Over the years I’ve competed in countries where the guys are coming from this year, such as Canada and America, so it will be good to ride with them in my own backyard.“

With a strong career at age 34, Steve has been competing in rodeos for 17 years and currently holds the New Zealand Rodeo Cowboys Association Saddle Bronc Champion title.

“You just need to hope that you draw a good bronc for the night and do the best you can with what you get given.

“The broncs are the best from the South Island and you want to draw the best bucking horse for the night. That’s what I’m hoping for,” he said.

Other saddle stars set to get the crowd on edge are Canterbury boys Scott Maybery, 27, and Jon O’Reed, 23, who are said to be in fine form for the show.  Canadian cowboy Todd Shelton, who impressed crowds at last year's International Rodeo, will also return.

The International Rodeo being held at Westpac Arena will feature daring cowgirls in a barrel racing challenge, saddle bronc riding, bareback bronc riding, as well as the infamous bull ride and eight-times International bull fighting Champion, the Australian “Kamikaze Kid”, Matt Darmody, 25 – who always gets nailed.

With amazing sound and lighting effects and spectacular pyrotechnics, the show is set to go off.

Country and western performers Brendan Dugan, Gray Bartlett and Patsy Riggir will literally take centre stage from a suspended stage off the arena roof, and play with Ashburton band The Remedies.

The International Rodeo kicks off from 6.30pm with tickets available from Ticketek. Ticket prices are from Adults $65 and Children $45.

Head to www.nzcupandshow.co.nz for more event information throughout 7-15 November.

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