Sophie and Angus were in separate classes at yesterday’s Waikouaiti Rodeo because of their age difference, as Sophie had moved up from the juniors.
She and her brother got into the sport about six years ago and have not looked back.
"I help him with barrel racing," Sophie said.
"He gives me tips with roping."
"The more work you put in, the more you get out of it."
Her interest was sparked initially by watching events and then she "got the bug for it".
Her enjoyment was both about competing and the friends she had made.
Angus said they had grown up riding on the family farm and also received coaching.
He liked the sport’s environment, "doing what I love".
Their father James Smith said rodeo was the main sport for the family and also provided a good holiday.
"It’s our No 1 adventure for the summer."
A solid crowd of spectators was drawn to the event at the Waikouaiti sports ground yesterday.
There were also stalls providing food and beverages, and a bouncy castle was in operation for children.
