HEAT and flies, mud and rain, were not going to deter competitors over the weekend at last month's annual Merrijig Campdraft which was praised as being an “awesome” event thanks to the efforts of a hard working committee and the support of the local community.
The weekend went really well according to club president Jason Egan attracting both local riders and drafters, and those from across the state and over the border.
The Merrijig Campdraft Club committee decided after attracting so many entries at the close of nominations to change the program and run the encouragement draft late Friday afternoon.
This allowed competition to continue with the Maiden A & B first thing Saturday morning with a forecast for an extremely hot day.
The junior, juvenile and open drafts were then in action and enabled riders to compete in the first 45 runs of the novice feature with the threat of rain on the horizon for Sunday.
Latest Stories
A balmy Saturday evening was an ideal opportunity to chill out with campdraft mates over a roast dinner and drinks with entertainment provided by musician Liam O’Neill.
Sunday morning dawned with showers which continued to get heavier throughout the day.
But there were still plenty of smiles to be seen and top quality competition despite the mud and rain.
The campdrafting community prides itself on being a family sport and likes to make sure there are activities for the young ones.
The kids breakfast supplied by Hidden Trails by Horseback was well supported and represented an opportunity to raise funds for the local CFA.
Later in the morning the Glenroy Merrijig CFA turned up with a lolly scramble for the kids.
Sunday saw the continuation of the Dunrobin novice draft keenly contested with $1500 prize money on offer and the prestigious buckle up for grabs.
There was a second one for the best cut out in the novice also donated by Dunrobin.
Taking out the top prize was Ash Sheahan riding Hunter View Colorado for 178 points, also winning the buckle for best cut out in the novice.
Sheahan was presented with both buckles by Dunrobin’s Ralph Nemeth a sponsor of the Merrijig Campdraft over many years.
To round out the day the C&P McCormack Memorial was run as the rain continued to come down and nearby Mt Timbertop was shrouded in low cloud.
Ash Sheahan riding Sheahan’s Legacy for 171 points was the top score to beat continuing his successful weekend of drafting.
The Merrijig Campdraft Club thank their numerous generous sponsors, cattle donors Chris Stoney and the Tanner family, and the many volunteers who assisted over the weekend.
The next local campdraft will be the Mansfield Campdraft from March 14 to 16 next year.
