At the age of 95, Bob Holder from Cootamundra is not your typical retiree. Instead of watching life go by from a rocking chair, he’s gearing up for another ride at the Mount Isa Rodeo, the largest in the Southern Hemisphere. This year, he’ll be making the 4400 km journey to the Queensland outback with his daughter Kerrie, a champion barrel racer.
Bob, known as “The Cootamundra Cat,” holds the title of the world’s oldest professional cowboy recognized by the International Professional Rodeo Association. With nearly 80 years of experience in the saddle, he is a legend in the rodeo circuit. Kerrie, following in her father’s footsteps, is a skilled rider in her own right, having secured the national title in 2021.
The Holder duo embodies rodeo royalty, with their deep-rooted passion for the sport evident in their continued participation. Bob’s rodeo journey began at the age of 14 in Tumut, where he won his first bronc ride using a cleverly forged letter to meet the age requirement. Since then, he has competed in numerous rodeos across Australia and even in the US, making history as the first Australian bronc rider to win prize money at Madison Square Garden.
Despite facing setbacks like the recent theft of a prized buckle, Bob’s resilience and dedication to the sport have never wavered. His illustrious career has earned him a place in the Australian Rodeo Hall of Fame and the admiration of riders spanning generations. His name is revered in Cootamundra, where the local rodeo arena proudly bears his name.
Bob now competes in the rope and tie team event as the header, showcasing his impeccable timing and precision. His upcoming appearance at the Mount Isa Mines Rodeo, a significant event in Australian sport, is eagerly anticipated. The rodeo, once a modest affair, has evolved into a major competition offering substantial prize money across various categories.
The 2025 Mount Isa Rodeo is expected to draw a large pool of competitors, including rising junior talents and elite female riders. Bob’s presence at the event has become a tradition, with his humility and unwavering passion leaving a lasting impact on both spectators and fellow riders. As he prepares to once again grace the arena, his spirit and courage serve as a testament to the timeless allure of rodeo.
When Bob Holder mounts his horse at the rodeo, he embodies the essence of the Australian rodeo family, inspiring all with his unwavering love for the sport. Regardless of age, Bob’s determination and enthusiasm reflect the enduring spirit of rodeo, proving that passion knows no bounds and courage transcends time.
📰 Related Articles
- Funeratus Defies Odds with ‘Age of Darkness’ EP Release
- Elderly Runner Defies Age Stereotypes in Athens Marathon Triumph
- Zion’z: Brazilian Reggae Metal Band Defies Music Genre Boundaries
- Youth vs. Experience: Impact of Age in Piano Competitions
- Why El Salvador Defies IMF Deal with Bitcoin Purchases: B3 Brazil Implications