Zac The Bull Rider

Newcastle Herald

Thursday April 28, 2005

By AARON BAILEY, JACOB CABAN and DUSTIN KING

THE fear of blood, sweat and broken bones was faced by Bellbird P.S. student Zachary Littlewood while participating in the poddy ride at the Cessnock Rodeo on March 19.

Twelve children aged between eight and 11 had the exciting but terrifying experience of their lives when faced with 100 kilograms of steer. Most of the contestants were thrown like a bullet out of a gun before the six-second buzzer.

"The bull started running, jumping and bucking and then I hit the ground when the buzzer went off," Zachary said. "I hopped out of the arena and then asked my dad if I could have an ice cream."

Zac has ridden in a total of five rodeos and gets his inspiration from his pop, who was a rodeo champion.

He said that he does it for the fun but the $100 prize money encourages him along the way.

Zac did not win this rodeo but he's still inspired about next year's event.

"Even though I wake up sore the next day I have a lot of fun and look forward to next year when I am going to ride the steer for the full six seconds," he said.

Shaun Ferguson, also a student of Bellbird P.S., was scheduled to ride in the poddy ride but due to a time mix-up was unable to ride. He hopes to show his ability in next year's rodeo.

"I am disappointed that I missed my ride but I have another chance to ride this year when I compete in the Dungog rodeo," he said.