Rodeo turns pink in aid of good cause

The Waikouaiti Rodeo turned a bit pink yesterday, and it was not from too much sunshine or the embarrassment of a bull getting the better of a rider.

Cowboys and girls, rodeo clowns, spectators and even horses wore pink in support of the New Zealand Breast Cancer Foundation in the CRT Tough Enough to Wear Pink event.

Club past president Gary Fentiman said the day was "really good" and despite the sun not playing its part, there was no rain to dampen the 400 spectators' spirits.

More than $9700 was raised for the Breast Cancer Foundation through sponsorship and merchandise.

The club was "over the moon" to raise so much for the cause, he said.

With all the pink paint splashed about for the event, he hoped the themed event would continue in the future.

About 230 competitors from all over New Zealand entered the 46th annual event, the fourth on the Southern Circuit.

Those from the North Island often stayed in the lower South Island for a few weeks to take part in the Southland, Mataura, Outram and Waikouaiti rodeos, before going on to the Lawrence Rodeo this Saturday, he said.

Outram Rodeo publicity officer Fred Doherty said a "good crowd" turned out on Saturday to enjoy a great day in "glorious weather".

After changing the usual format to just the open performance, a "short, sharp, compact, high energy day" was had by all.

After coming all the way from Australia, feature cowboy Shane O'Loughlin failed to catch his steer in the steer wrestling and did not post a time, he said.

ellie.constantine@odt.co.nz