After taking on the world, Levi Ward’s determination to become the best bull rider Australia has ever produced has grown.
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Levi returned yesterday from travelling across America, fulfilling his dream of competing in rodeos against the best bull riders in his age group.
The 10-year-old accomplished his goal of finishing in the top 15 in the Youth Bull Riding World Finals but he can’t wait to return and improve his ranking.
"My final ride put me in 11th spot in the world, my dream was to finish in the top 15 and I am really proud of my accomplishments,” Levi told the Argus.
“I will be going back next year and will be looking for a greater result.
“I will be 11-years-old then and a lot strong, going over this year has made me more keen than ever to become world number one Professional Bull Rider.
The boy from Kundabung was ranked in 8th place after his three rides at the world finals, with the top 15 qualifying for the final.
Levi drew a ferocious beast for his final ride but he didn’t take a backwards step when faced with the challenge.
“I drew the biggest and toughest bull at number eight, he was double the size of those I ride in Australia,” Levi said.
“I rode my best but pulled up a quarter of a second short of the time.
“It was a great effort and I learned so much from the experience.”
Levi’s 11th place at the world finals came a week after he finished in first place at the Clinton rodeo in Oklahoma.
There wasn’t an Under-11 steer ride but Levi was quick to put his hand up for the Under-14 junior bull competition and he impressed immediately.
“I had a great ride and won the event, the prize money was like four times what you win in Australia,” he said.
Levi is thankful for the support he received from everyone back home that helped him to achieve “the greatest experience of my life”.
Levi’s father Dean expressed gratitude to everyone who had contributed to Levi achieving his dream.
“There was too many amazing people who helped Levi head to America to thank individually,” Dean said.