Key Takeaways
- The Wānaka Rodeo took place despite wet weather conditions, with competitors and spectators showing up in large numbers.
- The rodeo arena’s resurfacing a few years ago has made it more resilient to rain, minimizing the impact on events.
- The Wānaka Rodeo is part of the South Island Christmas circuit, which consists of five rodeos where competitors can earn points towards national titles.
- The event is a significant contributor to the local economy, with visitors staying in local accommodation and dining at local restaurants.
- The rodeo club has a strong support system, with volunteers and sponsors from the Upper Clutha area and beyond.
Introduction to the Wānaka Rodeo
The Wānaka Rodeo was held recently, with spectators and competitors alike braving the wet weather to attend the event. Despite the rain, the atmosphere was lively, with gumboots and rain jackets being the uniform of the day. Competitors and spectators alike were undeterred by the weather, with many saying that it would take more than a little rain to stop them from showing up. Kim Richards, a competitor from Alexandra, said that the wet conditions should not have a significant impact on the events, thanks to the arena’s resurfacing a few years ago.
Competitor Insights
Kim Richards, who competed in the open women’s barrel race, was optimistic about her chances, saying that she was hoping for a good clean run. This rodeo season is the first that Ms. Richards and her 14-year-old horse, Spur, are competing in together. She expressed her enthusiasm for the event, saying that it had been a good experience so far. The Wānaka Rodeo is part of the South Island Christmas circuit, which consists of five rodeos where competitors can earn points towards national titles. The circuit provides a platform for competitors like Ms. Richards to showcase their skills and compete against the best in the region.
Spectator Enthusiasm
Spectators like Lexi Cuthbertson, who attended the event with her family and friends from Wānaka, were equally enthusiastic about the event. Despite the rain, they said that they would have come regardless of the weather. "Sun, rain, or hail, we would be out here watching," she said. "It’s a great day out for the boys." The rain did not seem to dampen the spirits of the spectators, who were eager to watch the events and cheer on their favorite competitors. The enthusiasm of the spectators is a testament to the popularity of the Wānaka Rodeo, which has become a staple event in the region.
Economic Benefits
The Wānaka Rodeo is not only a popular event but also a significant contributor to the local economy. Alpine Street Machines president Steve Swift said that the rodeo was great value for the town, with visitors staying in local accommodation and dining at local restaurants. The rodeo arena can hold up to 6000 spectators, and while the rain may have slowed some people down, Mr. Swift said that people still came out in large numbers. Last year, about 5000 people attended the event, and organizers are expecting similar numbers this year. The economic benefits of the rodeo are a significant factor in its continued success, with local businesses benefiting from the influx of visitors.
Club History and Support
The Wānaka Rodeo club has a rich history, having been formed in 1963. The club is supported by volunteers and sponsors from the Upper Clutha area and beyond. The club’s strong support system has enabled it to continue hosting the rodeo, which has become a beloved event in the region. The club’s commitment to the event is evident in the effort that goes into organizing and hosting the rodeo, which is a testament to the dedication of the volunteers and sponsors. The Wānaka Rodeo is an excellent example of a community coming together to support a popular event, and its continued success is a reflection of the community’s enthusiasm and dedication.
