THE power went out but the sparks still flew inside the ring at the Summertime Rodeo held at Wingham. All the action was there and the large crowd of more than 3500 enjoyed the entertainment and competition.
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Rodeo steward Merv Mills said the crowd was really good and included many families turning up in large numbers to rival last year's event. The event, held at the Wingham Showground, was blessed with good weather and the competitors gave it their all.
Organisers were able to bring in the clowns as things went a little awry and light troubles threatened the evening events. Old electricals are thought to be to blame and it was an unfortunate hiccup in an otherwise successful rodeo that many are still talking about days later.
Announcer Glen Morgan expertly built the tension as each competitor prepared to enter the ring - his extensive knowledge of the rider's history leaving the crowd in no doubt of whom they were watching.
Judges Cameron Glass and Kevin Cooper had their work cut out with 270 entries but were able to determine some worthy winners. The rodeo attracted competitors from far and wide with some big name riders together with more familiar local faces in the ring. The decision to make late changes to the program was made to accomodate some competitors travelling from Picton, this change together with the electrical issues made a few events a little late for some. David Mason won the open bullride with Carl Green second.
Popular side events included the motorbike versus horse barrel race- the bikes beaten in the end by sheer 'horsepower.' The clowns were a hoot and generous to boot with plenty of lollies finding their way into little sticky hands.