Partington Boys Road Trip – Day 2
Driving & Action Day
A ‘Bucking’ Good Time Had By All
A Day in the life of a cowboy!….Mt Gambier Rodeo.
Had an amazing experience tonight with the lads by scoring the closest vantage point to the bulls and broncos (without actually riding them). Met a former rodeo promoter that got us a position right between the judges near chute 6, and on the gate where the riders walk through after they have been bucked off.
Was incredible to feel the power of the 900kg – 1000kg bulls smashing into the fences and slamming riders in front of us. The courage of these cowboys is unbelievable.We were able to watch riders psych themselves up, and then see reactions and injuries straight after the ride. We even saw a bull turn upside down in a chute and almost crush a rider.The panic as 6 people jumped in to get the rider out of the chute (and ensure safety of bull) was breathtaking.
An amazing insight into the macho world of rodeo where even if cowboys are injured, no one gives them sympathy or extra attention, as the riders know what they are signing up for. I also was able to go in behind the scenes, soak up the adrenaline and learn how the Woodall rodeo family has to comply with ethical standards and run the rodeo with the animals welfare front of mind.
The Motocross aerial display was awesome as well, with us positioned underneath the landing ramp on top of a semi trailer. A complete country experience!
