EDITORIAL - SHANE IKER

 I would like to start by congratulating all the winners and qualifiers of the NFR. I thought the standard of the competition and sportsmanship was outstanding. Also at the Finals I handed out to all the Steer Wrestling Qualifiers a Bullzye Jacket and would like to thank them and also my other sponsor Westco Trucks. All the Steer Wrestlers were very impressed with them.

In relation to the timed events, I would like to express my thanks to all of the Calf Ropers for co-operating with the use of our new device. It is proving to be a great success when used and set up correctly. If it wasn’t for the work and commitment from Glen Mansfield and Clive Hanrahan we would not have this event to compete in. We cannot forget it has been instrumental to the future of our sport and for that I would like to say a big thank you on behalf of all the calf ropers. Can we also please be conscious of our actions at rodeos we go to as there are cameras everywhere watching our every move, this does not just relate to Calf Ropers but to all competitors. I am sure everyone is very passionate about their sport and would not like to jeopardise it in any way. I also ask that we refrain from engaging in any form of debating with the social media.

At Taroom Rodeo I watched the Junior Breakaway and Junior Barrel Race and I was amazed at how fierce the competition was. I would like to take my hat off to the great parents behind these kids, you are doing a great job and should be very proud of these children and at how well their horses were presented. I would also like to commend at how well all the juniors were dressed, you looked like true cowboys and cowgirls. Good Job.

As the Northern Run is well and truly in full swing I would like to wish everyone safe travelling, and I hope everyone is winning lots and having a great time. With the number of entries (especially in the Team Roping) this should make for good competition and a healthy payout.  Good luck and all the best in the year to come.

Shane Iker