He has a collection of buckles but doesn’t wear them. When his dad tries to; his son protests. “You didn’t win it; so you can’t wear it,” he says. A fair call considering eight-year-old Kundabung cowboy, Levi Ward, already has a vest full of sponsors, a stack of titles and a dresser full of trophies.
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One of the most prized, a solid, silver bull given to him by Australia’s number one bull rider, Cody Heffernan. His idol presented it to him at after Levi won the Under 8 steer ride at the 2015 Singleton Rodeo.
From Wingham to Wagga Wagga and Mareeba to Rockhampton, Levi’s family has traversed the countryside since discovering his inexhaustible talents in 2014. And, it doesn’t matter if the diminutive champion climbs on the back of a steer, or saddles up for a barrel race, the titles and accolades keep coming his way.
Despite already suffering two serious injuries – a busted arm after being hung up, and a bruised liver earlier this year. This sickening accident occurred on March 11 at ABCRA event in Camden – it was his eighth birthday. A milestone he had been eagerly anticipating. As it meant a move up to the more competitive under 11 category, where he would be able to accumulate points rather than just win individual events. Levi was rushed to hospital after being kicked as he fell off. The result three weeks resting, and full medical clearance before riding again in Dungog.
Proud dad, Dean says despite the setback Levi looks like he will still finish in this year’s Top Five. “This is pretty good considering he has only just turned eight and the time he sat out,” he explains. Since returning from injury Levi has been impressive, with a win at Coutts Crossing, Coonamble, equal first at Dubbo and second at Branxton. Dean says Levi and two of his sisters, Frankie, 6, and Bobbie 11, have also qualified the ABHA national finals at Tamworth in September.
Dean describes his son as an “interesting kid”, who is wise beyond his years, and can turn his hand to anything. “People say that kid has been here before,” he says. Levi loves all sports, including Rugby League, and is quite the scholar.