Saddle up, Sarina!
This New Year's Eve, prepare for a thrilling, heart-pounding experience unlike any other as the town welcomes a groundbreaking event to ring in 2024 - a bull riding competition with a twist.
Organised by Borghero Mini Buckers, this isn't your typical rodeo; it's an entertainment spectacle set to ignite the Sarina Showgrounds with pulsating beats, adrenaline-pumping action, and family fun under the stars.
Danny Borghero, a seasoned bull rider with over two decades of experience, is spearheading this revolutionary bull riding series, aiming to support and boost grassroots bull riding in North Queensland. With his three sons Jay, Jared and Ky, making waves in the bull riding world with multiple championship wins, the Borghero family knows the sport inside out.
Eldest son Jared has been a champion bullrider and is now a bullfighter or protection athlete. Jay is also a champion bullrider and youngest son, Ky, has been a junior champion and is stepping up to the open category.
On NYE, Ky will headline the action alongside other top riders set to be announced this week.
"This New Year's Eve bullride will be a high-action spectacle with non-stop riding and fighting," Danny Borghero shared. "But instead of only being open to professional bull riders, this event is open to all classes, providing an inclusive platform for riders of varied skill levels."
It's not just about the thrill of riding - this event serves as a catalyst for nurturing budding talent. From novices to juniors, steer to mini bull riders, and even the poddie category, riders of all ages and abilities will have their shot at the spotlight. Danny is focused on encouraging younger kids to join the sport.
"It's a great opportunity to develop the sport from the ground up and give our kids more riding and competition opportunities," Danny affirms.
The icing on the cake? For under-18 riders, the series offers a shot at competing in the United States, a dream opportunity that could shape their riding careers. The top two riders in the Under 18’s in the finals will have the opportunity to travel to the US to compete in the World Finals.
It’s full-on entertainment throughout the evening with a DJ, fog machine, flame torches, children’s entertainment including a jumping castle and face painting, a bar and specialty food vans – not to forget the fireworks at 9pm and again at midnight.
Beyond the riveting action, this event proudly stands behind the charitable organisation LIVIN, advocating the message that "It ain't weak to speak," supporting mental health awareness and resilience.
Tickets at the gate will be limited, so securing them online is advised to guarantee entry to this adrenaline-fueled extravaganza.
Special recognition goes to Tandy Concrete, Mackay’s only Queensland-owned concrete plant, for their support, making this unforgettable event possible.
Get ready to witness the thunderous hooves, the bravado of riders, and the electrifying energy that'll set Sarina's NYE on fire!
Event Details:
● When: NYE, 31st December
● Gates Open: 3 pm | Show Starts: 5 pm
● Where: Sarina Showgrounds
● Cost: Adults $25, Students $15, Under 5 FREE, Families (2 adults, 2 kids) $60
● Tickets: Available online via trybooking.com
Ky Borghero will be competing at Sarina’s New Year’s Eve bull riding extravaganza. Photos supplied
