CAMPDRAFTING: A testing afternoon of competition saw a New South Welshman come out on top in the Ascot Angus and Charolais Champion of Champions Draft.

Paul Carlon, a veteran of the Warwick Rodeo and Campdraft for almost 30 years, picked up the biggest win of his career in the Rose City with a definitive victory.

Making the big journey from Rock Forest, near Bathurst, was no deterrent for the stalwart.

Carlon came into the final in a share of sixth position after a first round score of 89.5 points however he held his nerve to be one of just four competitors to record a complete score in the decider.

Carlon and horse Heatwave, who had the second run of the final, and said there were a few nervous moments as he watched on.

"I thought I went close with my run but, with the level of campdrafters in this competition, it's never done until the final run,” he said.

"There were some top- quality riders still to go and some of the best in the game, so I wasn't over the line until the end.”

The win has a special significance for Carlon, who has been coming to Warwick for close to three decades.

"I've been coming nearly every year since 1998,” he said. "It's my best result to date.

"I've had three seconds and a few thirds under my belt, but this is my first win here.”

Carlon was full of praise for Heatwave, which has been a part of the family since he was four years old.

"He's 13 now and has been a massive part of our family,” he said. "The run felt really good today.

"The cattle were good, and they were Heatwave's type.

"He expresses himself so much.

"My daughter, Natasha, and wife Kym ride him and he just cruises back to their pace.

"It makes my job so much easier with a horse like Heatwave.”

RESULTS

Paul Carlon and Heatwave 179.5

Mac Shann and Porter 174

Scott Bandy and Roc CD 173.5.