Station hand wins first title
A MOUNT Garnet-based station hand has claimed the Great Northern Open Bull Riding championship following three scintillating rides in front of 1500 spectators at Smithfield on Saturday night.
Raymond Provost rode bull Trailer Trash in the final at Ivanhoes Rugby League Club to beat Tully cowboy Michael Smith and claim his first overall career title after eight seasons on tour.
Smith dislocated his kneecap in the final ride when he was flipped by 850kg brahman crossbreed Apollo Creed.
Apollo Creed, who has yet to be successfully ridden in more than 60 attempts, is expected to compete at the Bucking Bull of the Year competition later this month.
A proud Provost, 24, travelled home yesterday afternoon and presented his trophy, belt buckle and $2500 prizemoney to his wife Renee and 10-month-old son Cody.
“It feels really good. I’ve been dreaming about it for a long time,” Provost said.
“It’s taken me a few years to get here.
“I’ve definitely had a few bumps and bruises along the way.”
Injuries, including a broken foot and ribs, have held Provost back in recent years.
He came close to winning titles in 2012 and 2015 but said legendary bull rider Doc Connolly had taught him to be more “mentally fit” when gripping the flat braided rope and mounting a bull.
“I was more focused last night,” Provost said. “I’ve been working on getting in the zone and being mentally fit. “Last night I was all in. “When I first started I wasn’t really good but Doc took me under his wing and really helped me out.”
Event promoter Peter Brown said Provost was a deserving winner.
“He covered three bulls and didn’t buck off at all last night,” Brown said.
“It was a hell of a night and he’s been the best rider at all three events staged this year.
Despite being a dangerous sport, the young cowboy said he had emerged from bull riding relatively unscathed to date.
“I’ve been really lucky, to be honest,” Provost said.
“I have had a broken foot and broken ribs and a few pulled muscles but not too much.
“I wear a helmet but I’ve still had bulls stick their horns through my face mask.”
The next Far North bull riding season is expected to start in January.