NEWS QueenslandFarmerToday.com.au
Campdraft is booming By Fiona Gowers With its relaxed atmosphere and perfect mix of social and sport, campdrafting is experiencing a post Covid-19 boom. The 2021 Triple Crown staged at Condamine, Chinchilla and Warwick attracted more than 800 competitors from Queensland, WA and the NT all vying for $431,000 in prizemoney. “The competition at all three events was very strong,” said Australian Campdraft Association (ACA) president Hugh Philp. “Due to favourable seasonal conditions, the cattle were the best we have ever presented and the grounds very safe. “I couldn’t have doubted anything those three committees achieved, all events were run beautifully. “It has been two years since these events were run and I think the competitors were very grateful for everything done for them.” Beginning as a friendly rivalry among stockmen, campdrafting has evolved into a popular weekend activity for both amateurs and professionals. In Queensland, an average of 800 nominations are received per week, with some events attracting 1400 entries. “I can’t pinpoint why,” said Australian Campdraft Association (ACA) president Hugh Philp.
“But maybe (it’s because) you can pull up and camp for three days, relax with like-minded people and compete but also have a few beers. I think the social aspect is a huge drawcard. “I am 47-years-old and have been campdrafting my whole life, not much has really changed but, for some reason, the sport is going through an incredible transition at the moment.” Mr Philp said ACA membership had almost doubled in six years to toal 9500 members. He said a high school event run on 8, 9 and 10 October in Dalby attracted 270 school students from 38 schools, demonstrating the sport’s growth and the enthusiasm from young people. The downside however, according to Mr Philp, was that some competitors were unable to secure a nomination to compete. “We’ve ended up with large waiting lists but the popularity of it has been incredible really, it’s just become harder to manage at the moment,” he said. “We’re constantly looking for ideas and listening to different committees as they try different things with Covid-19 restrictions.” The ACA will celebrate its 50-year anniversary at Springsure, Queensland next year. Australian Campdraft Association (ACA) president Hugh Philp.
2021 Triple Crown honour roll Warwick Gold Cup, 31 October, 2021 Richard Hansen on 49er Shake Pete Comiskey on Duck n Down Will Durkin on Marnies Glamour
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Chinchilla Grandfather Clock Campdraft, 23 October, 2021 Robert Plant on Condet Pete Comiskey on Archdale Convoy Steve Comiskey on Design In Mind
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Condamine Bell Open Draft, 17 October, 2021 Ben Hall on Jackson Joe Payne on Cole Black & Ben Hall on Classy Dove
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