He had his 7th birthday a mere two days before the Millers Flat Rodeo, and the junior steer ride was his first rodeo event.
Dustin, of Waimate, did not know what his favourite part about the experience was — he was "thrown around a lot", he said.
He usually rode horses at his home, but had learnt the basics of steer riding during some practice days with the Waimate Rodeo Club, and his father, Nye Harborne, had also helped him out.
Mr Harborne said he was "very proud" of how his son performed.
He said he had been hesitant to let Dustin on a steer, as he was still a rather "small lad", but Dustin had pestered him and worn him down.
"He’s wanted to ride for, like, the last forever ... we finally gave in this year."
Dustin did not quite make it atop the steer for the full six seconds, and "probably could have gotten a re-ride", but it was just his first go and he would have another chance at the Omarama Rodeo taking place tomorrow, where he would get his second taste of performing for the crowds, Mr Harborne said.
Dustin was the third Harborne sibling to find himself starting a rodeo career — his two sisters competed before him on the day in the junior barrel race, and his parents competed together later in the afternoon in the open team roping.
