Horsemanship is essential for Miss Rodeo Australia
MORE than just a beauty pageant - the second phase of judging for the Miss Rodeo Australia competition held in Warwick at the weekend required a display of horsemanship.
Former roughstock rider and the first Australian to make the world finals for saddle bronc riding in Las Vegas, Darryl Joekong, said Miss Rodeo Australia "must be able to ride".
"The Miss Rodeo competition is a bit unique in that way. They have to ride and carry a flag, and handle whatever horse they're given for grand entries. There's a lot of stuff they need to handle," he said.
"And the girl that wins will be going overseas to represent Australia in America. There's a lot involved."
Unlike public speaking and decorum, Mr Joekong said horsemanship was not something that could be fixed overnight.
"Horsemanship is not a quick fix. That aspect alone eliminates a lot of girls," Mr Joekong said.
Both entrants - 2013 Miss Rodeo Queen Warwick and Miss Rodeo Queen Katherine - were supplied with two horses and were required to show their skills around a set course on both, once carrying the Australian flag.
