Central Hawke's Bay cowboy in the making Klaydyn Ward, 14, has been selected to compete in the Trans Tasman High School rodeo challenge in Australia at the end of this month.
The Year 10 CHB College student, and son of former national bullriding and all-round champion Jonny Ward, has been making waves on the national scene since he started steer riding about three years ago, and last year finished fourth in New Zealand for his division.
For the upcoming event, taking place over several days across Australia, he will join a team of 10 who will be participating in barrel racing, steer riding, bull riding and bronco events.
Having encountered them already on the circuit, Klaydyn is looking forward to catching up with his teammates and also some of the Australian riders taking part.