Otago Daily Times

Crowds set to be thrilled again by rodeo action

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CONTINUING the success of recent years, organisers and competitor­s are gearing up for the Maniototo Rodeo, to be held on Sunday December 27.

Last summer, hundreds of people enjoyed the rodeo under big skies, from the comfort of the bank. It’s hoped the weather will once again shine for the annual event.

The Maniototo Rodeo is part of the New Zealand Rodeo Cowboys Associatio­n (NZRCA) circuit. In recent years the event has attracted up to 200 competitor­s, and a similar number is set to enter the arena again this year, with entries still open.

Maniototo Rodeo Club members and volunteers are once again looking forward to bringing this spectacula­r showcase of rodeo entertainm­ent to the region this year, and hope that it continues for many years to come.

This year’s rodeo is the second event on the NZRCA Christmas circuit, following the Millers Flat Rodeo, with the rodeo season running from October through to April. The rodeo will start at 11am, with an exciting array of open and seconddivi­sion events on offer.

Some of New Zealand’s top rodeo names will be competing, including previous champions. Events in the open category include bareback, rope and tie, saddle bronc, barrel race, steerwrest­ling, team roping, and the bull ride.

The seconddivi­sion events this year will include steer ride, junior barrel race, local barrel race, and novice steer ride. There is children’s entertainm­ent on offer in a dedicated kidsonly area.

No dogs, glass, or BYO alcohol are allowed, however, there will be a licensed bar facility, with eftpos available.

For visitors looking to stay in the area for the rodeo, accommodat­ion and meals are available at the Waipiata Country Hotel.

After Christmas and Boxing Day are out of the way, come and relax on the bank and enjoy the family entertainm­ent on offer at the Maniototo Rodeo. The Maniototo Rodeo Club would like to thank all its loyal sponsors; without their generous support the event couldn’t be held.

MANIOTOTO RODEO: 10.30am on Sunday December 27. 558 WaipiataNa­seby Rd, Waipiata. General entry: $15; children 1015: $5; under10s free. Family pass: $40.

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 ??  ?? Above far left: Annabelle Wiggins of Ashburton raking the surface during at last year’s Maniototo Rodeo.
Above far left: Annabelle Wiggins of Ashburton raking the surface during at last year’s Maniototo Rodeo.
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