Riders to saddle up for family-friendly competition

Published 4:00pm 1 March 2022

Words by Ashleigh Howarth

Riders young and old will be jumping into the saddles to show off their skills at the second round of the DWHDC Buckle Challenge Series at the Dayboro Showgrounds next month

The event, hosted by the Dayboro Working Horse and Dog Committee, will be held on Saturday, April 2.

President Jennifer Sommerfeld is hoping for a big turnout on the day to cheer on all the competitors.

“We have riders aged from five up to 75, featuring everyone from the rookie riders to the best of the best,” she said.

“There will be lots of whip cracking and thrills from inside the arena, as well as lots of cheering from the crowd.

“It’s going to be a great day with a real family-friendly atmosphere.

“Everyone should come on down and support the riders and take in all the action from the hill, which is a great place to grab a burger and a drink.”

The club follows the rules set out by the Australian Stockman’s Challenge Association, where riders must perform certain tasks and manoeuvres.

Each class is sponsored by the Queensland Racing Integrity Commission.

Even the little kids are having a go on the horses, and practice moving cattle by chasing someone dressed up in a cow suit.

Growing in numbers

Mrs Sommerfeld is entering her third year as President and is thrilled with how quickly the club is growing.

“There’s a lot of interest in the club. At last count last year, we had 214 members,” she said.

“We also have more people signing up to compete. Last year we had maybe 70-75 competitors, but during the first round this year we had 130 nominations, so it really had doubled since last year.

“We are getting lots of positive feedback, and I even have businesses approaching me now asking if they can sponsor us and our events, which is great to see.

“We are just a little club trying to do something for our community.”