No bull, 'Tiny Texan' is a rodeo star

Promoters deny exploiting Shane Jones' size. Photo / Supplied

A little person set to be a feature attraction at an international rodeo is brushing off concerns he will be exploited for entertainment.

Shane Jones, standing at only 1.2m and weighing 50kg, will attempt to ride a 1000kg bucking bull at the event drawing many of the world's best rodeo competitors to Christchurch next month during New Zealand Cup and Show Week.

Mr Jones, 23, dubbed the "Tiny Texan", admits he is nervous about his first attempt at riding an animal of this size, but told the Herald he was being well paid for the role.

Little People of New Zealand president Jan Sargison said Mr Jones was not a member of her group, and had the right to take part in whatever activity he chose.

"But when it gets to the stage where it's becoming demeaning and people are laughing at him for what he is rather than what he is doing, we wouldn't support it."

Mr Jones said he was doing it only for himself.

"Of course there is going to be laughter, and people are going to think it's a joke, because it's an attraction. It's a unique event, and if it can attract more people then just go for it, man."

International Rodeo promoter Craig Douglas said there was no intention to exploit or demean Mr Jones, who was showing great courage to take part.

There was no question Mr Jones' size was a drawcard. It was a huge achievement for a full-sized adult to ride such an animal, Mr Douglas said.

Asked if Mr Jones' size meant increased safety concerns, Mr Douglas said: "Of course there are more safety concerns involved, but we will prepare for that the best we can."

Mr Jones said: "A couple of my friends have been going 'are you sure you really want to do this, Shane?' And I said, why not? Give it a crack."

The International Rodeo is also coming in for criticism from animal rights activists.

Save Animals from Exploitation claims the rodeo is tormenting the animals. But Mr Douglas said no animals were maltreated, and they were simply doing what they were trained to do.