PROFESSIONAL bull riding championship winner Fraser Babbington has returned to the North West in a bid to claim a second Mount Isa Mines Rotary Rodeo bull riding title starting tonight.
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The New Zealand native recently became the first from his country to win the Australian title on rival soil after being crowned 2015 champion at the ninth annual national finals in Sydney last month.
After missing out on last year, the 28-year-old is now aiming for more glory in the 57th edition of the Mount Isa event after winning the open bull ride in 2013.
“I’ve been travelling pretty hard for the last decade, going through injuries and that as well,” Babbington said.
“It’s just the nature of the sport.
“Breaking my collar bone at the end of 2013 was my last major injury. Apart from that I’ve been pretty fit and comfy.
“This year I’m more rundown after the PBR tour. After winning the title for that, it takes a lot of weight off my shoulders.”
With 2014 Isa Rodeo open bull ride champion Roy Dunn missing through injury, Babbington’s best competition is likely to come in the form of Wantabadgery’s Rhys Angland, Kurt Shephard from Atherton, and young rider Brydon Atkins.
But the world top 50 bull rider will be focused only on his own performance this weekend.
“My only competitor is my bull,’’ he said. ‘‘Any man on his given day can win it. It really comes down to whether or not you suit your draw or if the bull suits your style of riding.
“A lot of it comes down to whether you’ve already been beaten mentally by a bull already or not too.”
Aside from competing, Babbington has recently launched his own merchandise and clothing apparel called ‘BabbZ Inc.’
“I’ve got a few guys riding under my brand now,” he said
“Knowing the struggles of just being able to make the next event for some cowboys, my ambition is to increase financial assistance not only through sponsorship of elite and potential future champions, but to open up more opportunities through increased awareness of the sport.
“Later on I want to develop the sport as insurance for riders and helping the younger generation come through.”
Having competed overseas three times already, Babbington has plans to head back over to the big smoke once again later in the year.
For those interested in BabbZ Inc., visit the website www.babbz.com.au for further information.
Babbington has drawn Rock The House in round one at Buchanan Park on Saturday.
