Rider On Rough Road To Us Rodeos
Newcastle Herald
Friday April 24, 1998
A MORPETH teenager who began bull riding six months ago has made a national name for himself in the sport and has his sights set on the tough United States rodeo circuit.
Brendon Clark, 17, was one of 30 Australian riders to contest the prestigious invitational bull ride at this year's Royal Easter Show in Sydney.
The Year 12 student from All Saints College St Mary's campus snared fifth place in the contest.
Tomorrow he will compete in the bull riding and calf roping events at the Dungog Rodeo.
Brendon said Dungog was one of the many rodeo events on the national circuit that he hoped would pave the way for a riding career in the US.
He hopes to win a scholarship to one of the US `rodeo colleges' when he leaves school and has set himself a goal of two years to make it.
`That's where the big competition and the big money is,' Brendon said.
Brendon and mate Ben Jones, who is contesting the US circuit, were taught how to ride bulls by Bolwarra's Mr Chris Mead.
`We both learned from the best,' Brendon said.
Brendon said the secret to his success was keeping a clear head during a ride and letting the bull do the work.
`I just keep over the front and that takes the power away from the him,' he said.
`The bull can take me for a ride.
`All I have to do is make sure I hang on tight.'
Tomorrow's rodeo action can be seen at the Dungog Showground from noon.
An Anzac Day parade down the main street featuring 100 cowboys and Diggers riding side by side will begin at 10am.
Proceeds from the rodeo will support the Heart Foundation.
© 1998 Newcastle Herald
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