Manilla bronc-riding brothers Mick and Tom Knight will represent Australia against some of the world’s best riders at the Warwick Rodeo and Gold Cup Campdraft later this month.
The brothers are among a star-studded Australian contingent confirmed for the Cinch International Australian Bronc Match on Saturday, 24 October, where 24 elite competitors will battle for more than $50,000 in prize money.
Both riders bring extensive championship experience to the competition, with Australia aiming to reclaim the title after American competitors won the past two events.
Mick Knight, the 2021 Xtreme Broncs Australia series champion, has established himself as one of the country’s leading saddle bronc riders.
His brother Tom is a former Australian Professional Rodeo Association Tour Saddle Bronc Champion and multiple rookie-title winner.
Tom also claimed the 2023 Corryong Man From Snowy River Xtreme Broncs Challenge before securing the prestigious Ken Coleman Memorial Chute Out title at Cloncurry in 2025, having twice finished runner-up.
The Manilla brothers will join some of Australia’s most accomplished riders, including reigning Australian champion Bailey O’Dell, six-time National Rodeo Association champion Jack Capewell and 2022 Australian champion Greg Hamilton.
Other Australian competitors include Ben Rasmussen of Nevertire, Cade Ferguson of Cloncurry, Ken Coleman of Bells Bridge, Lane Edwards of Stratford and Clayton Braden of Collinsville.
They will face an international field featuring American riders Gus Gaillard, ranked 14th in the world, Zac Dallas, ranked 16th, and Shorty Garrett, ranked 19th.
Australian Bronc Match president Jake Finlay said the Australian team had been selected for its competitive achievements and commitment to the sport.
“These men have proven themselves throughout a fiercely competitive Xtreme Broncs Australia season, but what makes us equally proud is the way they carry themselves outside the arena,” Finlay said.
“Being a cowboy is about more than riding a bucking horse for eight seconds. It’s about integrity, respect, helping the bloke beside you and representing your community well.”
“We’ve brought together Australian champions, experienced campaigners and some of the most exciting young riders this country has produced. The Americans have taken the buckle home for two years running, but this is an Australian team capable of bringing it back.”
The competition will feature four sections, with the two highest-scoring riders from each advancing to an eight-man championship round.
More than $50,000 in prize money is on offer, including $20,000 for first place, $10,000 for second and $5,000 for third.
A custom-made Australian fender saddle, handcrafted by Beaudesert saddlemaker Troy Welsh, will also be awarded.
The event will feature some of Australia’s leading bucking horses, supplied by Gill Bros Rodeo, including horses carrying bloodlines tracing back to the renowned Carandotta horses of outback Queensland.
The Cinch International Australian Bronc Match will take place at Warwick Showgrounds on Saturday, 24 October, with competition expected to begin about 6pm.
The final start time is yet to be confirmed.
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