The bulls were the winner on the day at the Southland Rodeo in Invercargill at the weekend.

President Jordan Cook warned competitors leading up to the competition that the calibre of the bucking bulls this season was exceptionally high.

“They were too good this year and some of the best in the country,” he said of the 67th event that attracted thousands of spectators.

New Invercargill-based rider Nate Robinson won the Open Saddle Bronc in his first season competing.

Saddle bronc is the classic, foundational rodeo event where a rider must stay on a bucking horse for eight seconds, holding a rein with one hand.

The Southland Rodeo is part of the Southern circuit, along with Lawrence, Outram, Mataura, Wanaka, Millers Flat and Ranfurly.

Jordan said there was a strong turnout from North Island competitors, and next weekend there will be another chance for national selection at both Waimate and Lawrence.

The season concludes in March at Waikouaiti, with the southern town hosting the New Zealand Championships.

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