In the case of the Maniototo, it takes a community to prepare for an event like the rodeo which is being held on Sunday at the rodeo grounds at Waipiata.
The rodeo was revived in 2015 after an absence of several decades, the facilities built around a natural amphitheatre, and it has been a popular community event.
From farmers and teachers, to truck drivers and rodeo enthusiasts, the club boasts a wide variety of skills.
Actively involved are Sam Roxburgh, who competes in the novice steer ride, junior breakaway roping and junior barrel racing and barrel racer and breakaway roper Kim Richard.
Former New Zealand bull riding champion and team roping heeler Andrew Jamison competes in rope and tie and team roping while his partner Heidi Mehlhopt competes in second division breakaway roping and team roping. Charlie Dougherty and Harry Ellis are emerging competitors in the second division bull ride.
The club is led by president Stu Weir while landowner Grant Geddes is the club’s first life member. Long-time Maniototo stalwart David McAtamney is patron.
As well as the main rodeo in February, the club holds two jackpot rodeos each year and a fundraising trek in January.
Maniototo is the last rodeo for the season and leading competitors will battle it out for a top-eight finish to qualify for the national finals hosted by the Outram Rodeo Club on March 4.
By: Staff reporter
