The Kempsey Macleay RSL Club's Sportsperson of the Month for February is a three-way tie for the first time after Levi, Bobbi and Franki Ward all achieved great things in their sport.
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Levi and Bobbi Ward recently had the honour of being the first brother and sister in the country to be crowned the under 18 all-round champions.
At the recent Australian Bushmen's Campdraft and Rodeo Association (ABCRA) national finals in Tamworth, the siblings both took out the top prize in their divisions against fierce competition.
Levi is only 11 years old; however, the talented youngster already has many years of riding under his belt after starting at a young age.
"I got into riding because of a family friend, Brad Scott, he is a local bull rider, I started riding steers when I was very young over at his house," he told the Argus.
"I really love riding the mini bulls, and the roping, that would have to be my favourite.
"I just wish I could go into the higher class sooner, ride the bigger and better bulls and challenge myself more."
Levi's older sister Bobbi has always been there on the sidelines, cheering her brother on, and his impressive feats inspired her to follow the same path.
"I travelled all over Australia watching Levi in the rodeo, and in 2017, I thought I might like to have a go at barrel racing, I then won my first barrel title in 2018," she said.
"At the recent finals in Tamworth, I won the All Round junior cowgirl title, and I came runner up in the 11 to 14 barrel tittle.
"I'm hoping to make it over to America one day and make a career out this."
Not to be outdone by her older siblings, Franki Ward has also been blazing a path through the sport as well and has even found herself up against older brother Levi.
"I've had a great year on the circuit, but beating Levi at the finals to win the average would have to be the highlight of my career so far," she said.
"We had been battling all year in the barrel race, Levi came out on top to win the title, but at the finals, I came out and won the average over two rounds."
"I think I'll be doing this for the rest of my life; I can't wait until I'm old enough to start steer undecorating."
To be considered for the award, provide information on the individual's achievement and send it to stephen.katte@macleayargus.com.au.
A panel of judges from the Macleay Argus will determine the monthly and year winners of the award.
A sportsperson of the year will be decided upon early 2021 with an additional voucher of $500 for the restaurant awarded to the winner.
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