THE Capella Campdraft Association has hailed their annual draft on March 21, 22 and 23 a big success, with more than 1000 first-round runs.
Competitors and spectators experienced some top-class campdrafting, but the highlight of the weekend was Craig Kehl and One for Shorty teaming up to win the Capella Hotel open draft. The duo then went on to take the blue ribbon in the Rio Tinto shoot-out.
Other wins went to Ken Perrett and Red River in the Roy Ford maiden, and Scott Schoo on Mistake Creek Omeley in the Capella Mine Fix maiden. The Vanderfield ladies draft was won by local competitor Louise Comiskey and Dream. Nikki Marshall riding Classy 49er took the trophy in the CQ Pump and Irrigation restricted open.
Springsure competitor Kelly Zahl and Rocky took the blue ribbon in the O’Brien Trading novice draft, while the CQ Ag Services novice was won by Robert Durkin and Snooker. The junior and juvenile drafts were hotly contested, but it was Matthew Moffat of Kabra riding Kitson who won the Capella Van Park juvenile. The Lee Challacombe Helicopters junior was won by Emerald’s Ryan Wallen and Haratio.
Emerald’s Sarah Graham and Buddy placed first in the Central Highlands Auto encouragement, and Barry Johnson riding Mandolin won the trophy for the Landmark Futurity draft.
With maximum nominations, the three-day event ran smoothly thanks to generous support from sponsors, volunteers and committee members. Special thanks went to the cattle donors, the Comiskey family and NAPCO’s Gordon Downs.
