Southern rodeo fans corralled

Rotorua competitor Cody Davis won the open steer wrestling competition at Southland Rodeo. PHOTO: NATWICK/SUPPLIED

Cowboys and cowgirls converged on Southland at the weekend for what is claimed as the "southernmost rodeo in the world".

The Southland Rodeo Association held its 63rd rodeo during the weekend attracting about 250 competitors.

Among them were Cromwell cowgirls Kylie Murdoch and her 11-year-old daughter Grace Brenssell, who was in her first rodeo season.

Grace grew up riding horses in farm and accompanied her families to rodeos.

Kylie Murdoch and her daughter Grace Brenssell pose with their horses Mocha and Pumpkin. PHOTO: LUISA GIRAO

However, just last year she wanted to step up her skills and compete among the others.

"It’s really fun to have a goal and try to achieve it. I love the challenge."

Mrs Murdoch said she never put any pressure on her daughter.

"I never push her to compete but she always came along and had fun, so I think it was something natural. I think she came when she felt ready."

Grace already has plans for next year’s season — a new horse.

"Pumpkin is a really good horse but he’s older than 20, so he is getting a bit old."

Rodeo fans (from left) Harper Nichol, Elaine Macbeth and Ella Neilly want to have ponies of their own so they can be part of the rodeo. PHOTO: LUISA GIRAO

Elaine Macbeth (9), Harper Nichol (6) and Ella Neilly (6) had fun during the event.

"We ride horses on our farms but I don’t have a pony to compete yet. I would love to be part of the barrel race," Elaine said.

Southland Rodeo Committee member Julie Swain said about 1500 people gathered at Oreti Beach grounds to watch the competitions, including open rope and tie, steer wrestling, team roping and bull ride.

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