IT'S a highlight on the state's horse sports events calendar and the Tamworth Rodeo Round Up is set to be bigger than ever in 2022.
Hosted by the Australian Bushmen's Campdraft and Rodeo Association (ABCRA), next year's two-day event at the Australian Equine and Livestock Event Centre (AELEC) will feature live musical acts as part of the annual Tamworth Country Music Festival.
As well as a stellar line up of performers, the competition will feature a variety of events such as bull riding, the saddle bronc and team roping with more than $140,000 in prize money up for grabs.
Read Also:
ABCRA executive officer, Craig Young, said the Association is excited to welcome competitors back to the AELEC.
"It's been a tough 18-months for competitors across the country," he said.
"Rodeos have been cancelled because of COVID-19 and border closures have prevented many from travelling, so we are really looking forward to some action-packed competition here in Tamworth.
"The bull ride and saddle bronc, along with the ladies barrel race and open steer wrestling will be major drawcards for athletes, with $5000 up for grabs each night for each event.
"We'll also have considerably prizemoney in the open bareback, team roping, and rope and tie, plus a full card of junior and novice events."
The event, which will be held from January 21-22, will also mark the ABCRA's 10-year anniversary of partnering with the NSW Cancer Council through its 'Tough Enough to Wear Pink' fundraiser, which has helped raise more than $75,000 for the cause.
In honour of the milestone and of late ABCRA member Bruce Green, several events will be raising money for the charity as well as the Where There's A Will Foundation and Care Flight.
"The ABCRA supports a number of charities every year across its 212 affiliated committees," Mr Young said.
"The Rodeo Round Up will also be supporting the Where There's A Will Foundation and Care Flight on Saturday, with the 'Good Enough to Wear Green' rodeo in memory of ABCRA member Bruce Green."
Tickets for the event will go on sale in the coming weeks, while entries for the event close on December 28 and can be made via iCOMPETE.
The event will run in place of the traditional national finals competition, which has been moved to later in the year after the annual point score was extended due to impacts caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.
Love agricultural news? Sign up for The Land's free daily newsletter.