We are incredibly proud to announce that Year 8 student, Ed Smith has been selected to represent Australia as a member of the Year 7–9 High School Rodeo Team at the upcoming National Junior Rodeo Finals in Des Moines, Iowa, USA.

In January this year, Ed travelled to Bendemeer (near Tamworth) to compete in the Australian Junior Rodeo Finals, participating in both Saddle Steer and Bull Riding events. His goal was to place in the top four of his division — a feat he achieved with great success, being named Co-Champion in Bull Riding.

This outstanding result secured Ed a place at the prestigious National Finals, where he will compete against students from across the United States, Canada, Mexico, New Zealand and Australia. The event will run from 22 to 28 June, hosting over 1,200 young rodeo athletes aged 11–14, all showcasing their skills in a range of rodeo disciplines.

Since Bendemeer, Ed has continued training and participating in rodeos to maintain peak form. He and his family will travel to the United States on Monday 16 June, returning on 6 July.

We commend Ed on his dedication, courage and commitment to his sport, and we wish him and his family every success for this exciting international experience.

Well done, Ed — we’ll all be cheering you on from back home!