WILLINGA Park's 2021 World Championship Gold Buckle Campdraft can only be described as an overwhelming success.
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Across the three days of competition, the Bawley Point venue saw more than 5000 people watch Australia's finest campdrafters battle it out for the coveted Gold Buckle and the $100,000 grand prize - the richest purse in campdraft history.
Spectators were treated to three beautiful days of weather, fine food and superb entertainment culminating in the hotly contested final.
Competitors came as far as Nebo and Muttuburra in Queensland travelling some 22 hours to take part in this year's competition.
Of the 210 riders and their 445 horses, 97 riders were taken into the semi-final on the last day of competition, with 27 of those proving they had the skill to make the grand final.
Michael Hiscock, riding Mewburn Tip Top, all the way from Maffra, Victoria, put together superb back to back rounds of 91 and 90.33 for a combined aggregate score of 181.33.
That was enough to prove he had what it took to become the 2021 Gold Buckle champion.
Troy Palmer, riding Binnia Impressive Destiny and Jabell Shekera Spin came in second and third place respectively once again proving he is a mighty force to be reckoned with in the campdrafting world.
The 2021 Feature Cut Out final was won by Andrew Turvey riding Cat N Roses with the highest possible score of 25 points.
This year also saw the inclusion of two brand new events.
The inaugural Ladies Dash for Cash was won by Coco Willsallen riding Yellow Miss in a two-way run-off.
While the State of Origin competition had the crowds on their feet with team NSW consisting of Troy Palmer, Sarah Cookson and Hugh Miles taking out the honours.
"We are really amazed at the numbers this year," Willinga Park's Terry Snow said.
"210 riders with 440 horses and over 1,150 runs across the three days, not to mention the crowds.
"The Campdraft arena was at capacity on Saturday with both grandstands full.
"And we were able to showcase all of it at Willinga Park on live free-to-air television."
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Courtney Ward
Sports Journalist for South Coast Register and Milton-Ulladulla Times, who loves all things sport and travel. All views are my own.
Sports Journalist for South Coast Register and Milton-Ulladulla Times, who loves all things sport and travel. All views are my own.
