MAJOR changes are afoot for the 31st edition of the Glowalman junior rodeo starting in Nabiac next week.
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For the first time in 16 years there will be no rough-riding included in the schedule for the four-day event, which is held at three different locations in Nabiac, Gloucester and Wingham.
Instead, organisers are hoping to attract some of the best young rough-riders in the State to a standalone event to be held in September.
Glowalman vice president Kelvin Gregory said the rough-riding event would be held at locations including Gresford, Branxton, Stroud and Gloucester.
“It will still be a junior championship,” he said.
“Unfortunately, a lot of the riders can’t justify making the trip for just one rodeo.
“But we’ve got some great sponsors lined up for September and the competitors are enthusiastic so we’ll see how we go.”
Despite the absence of the rough riding, organisers are expecting an increase in the number of competitors at this year’s rodeo.
“I’d say there’s probably a 15 per cent increase on last year,” Mr Gregory said.
“We’ll easily get 350 kids.”
Competitors are aged between eight and 21 with non-competitive rides for Tiny Tots. About 50 families will take part in the family day in Gloucester on July 11.
“Last year was our first family day and competitors really embraced it. They thought it was wonderful,” Mr Gregory said.
The rodeo starts at Nabiac next Tuesday, July 8 before heading to Gloucester on Thursday, July 10.
The final day of the championship will be held at Wingham on Sunday, July 12.