Dane Tombleson's introduction to calf riding lasted all of three seconds.
The plucky Pukekohe 12-year-old accepted a challenge from his older brother, Ben, to follow family tradition and try his hand at riding in the rodeo at Port Waikato yesterday.
"It was real bumpy and fast. I told everyone I was nervous but I stayed on for two or three bucks." While his tumble looked spectacular, Dane suffered only a sore thumb and hopes to try again soon.
A crowd of 3500 turned out to the Counties Rodeo to watch cowboys compete for titles in bull riding, steer wrestling and calf roping.
More than 30 rodeos are held in New Zealand every year. Bull riding, where the rider must stay on the bull for eight seconds holding a rope with one hand, is considered the ultimate challenge.
Dane's father, Chris Tombleson, who used to ride when he was younger, said his son managed to draw the biggest calf in town. "He did well. He told me he was scared, and he looked a bit stunned when he fell off, but we're proud of him. He was riding a big beast."
Short but sweet: Dane's rodeo debut
AdvertisementAdvertise with NZME.