Riverina Cow Horse
Jackpot Brings Cow Horse Action to Bundalong
Article by Emma Finemore / Images by Coverdale Media
The small riverside town of Bundalong came alive with cow horse action from the 20th–22nd February, as competitors gathered for the Riverina Cow Horse Jackpot. Judged by Tim O’Brien, RCH once again delivered a weekend that celebrated the skill, grit and community spirit that defines Australia’s growing cow horse scene.
Set against the relaxed backdrop of Lake Mulwala and the iconic Bundalong Tavern, the venue provided the perfect atmosphere for a weekend that combined serious competition with country hospitality. Kicking of the weekend was a Scott and Lindee McNaughton Introduction to cow horse clinic, giving newcomers the skills and tools required to saddle up for their first weekend in the cow horse arena.
The combined jackpot and pre works format drew riders from across New South Wales and Victoria, competitors demonstrated the discipline’s three defining elements: rein work, cow work and fence work highlighting the athleticism, responsiveness and cow sense required of the modern performance horse.
Across the weekend, riders showcased everything from polished seasoned horses to promising young prospects. The competition remained tight throughout, with runs that demonstrated both the finesse of horsemanship and the instinctive ability of a well-trained cow horse.
Events such as the Riverina Cow Horse Jackpot play an important role in providing opportunities for riders to gain experience in a competitive yet supportive environment. Classes filling with a mixture of experienced combinations and those new to the sport, it is clear that enthusiasm for cow horse continues to grow.
Beyond the arena, the event reinforced what many participants value most about cow horse, the sense of community. Riders spent the weekend catching up with friends, sharing training tips, and supporting fellow competitors ringside.
A highlight of the weekend was the Cowboy Ball, held on Saturday night at the Bundalong Tavern. The event brought together cowboys and cowgirls for a night celebrating the culture and camaraderie of the Western performance horse industry. With live music, good food and plenty of laughs, it was the perfect way to cap off a big day of competition.
Events like the Bundalong Jackpot demonstrate the momentum behind cow horse in Australia. With strong runs, enthusiastic spectators and a supportive environment for riders and horses alike, the future of the sport looks promising. We would like to take the opportunity to thank everyone who held out a helping hand, everyone’s help is appreciated and nothing goes unnoticed.
Even a little rain on Sunday afternoon couldn’t dampen the spirits of competitors and committee, with plenty of smiles, hugs, cheers and cheeky fun had whilst packing up in the rain. Riverina Cow Horse is grateful for the people who turn up and support in different ways, without the smiles and helping hands of many these events wouldn’t be possible.
