I'm in it to win it, Teneille says

By Stuart Turner  |  January 19, 2012

Gunnedah's Teneille Clifford may have enjoyed a more relaxed year but she is still gunning for glory against her Australian rivals.

Clifford will again line up alongside some of the country’s best women barrel race riders at this year’s Australian Bushmen’s Campdraft and Rodeo Association’s (ABCRA) national titles later this month.

Last year’s champion only just squeezed into this year’s event after deciding to ease off ABCRA competition during 2011.

With a title at stake at the championships, Clifford said she is ready to enjoy some friendly high-stakes action.

“For sure, I always take it seriously,” she said.

“We didn’t do as many rodeos this year, but it doesn’t mean I will not go there to win.

“It is always great to meet up with fellow riders. It is a good social event [and] this year I want to have a lot of fun.

“I will still be there to win it [though].”

After going into last year’s event as number one rider and eventual top dog, Clifford only made it as the 15th and final qualifier this year.

The 26-year-old decided to “step back” from ABCRA events this year, with other commitments taking precedence.

Clifford collected about $2,300 in prize-money after only competing sparingly during the year.

Runaway section leader Bianca Hertel leads the chase for the overall title, having collected about $15,000 during 2011.

Clifford can claim the average title and championship belt with an excellent performance over the four-round event.

The festive period saw Clifford and husband and fellow rider travel to Victoria, with the pair sharpening their skills and picking up valuable prizemoney at a handful of rodeo events.

Clifford is sure that both she and regular horse, 14-year-old Boree Bar, will be in peak condition for the Tamworth Australian Equine and Livestock Events Centre event.

“I think I will be fine,” she said.

“It doesn’t take a lot to get my horse ready. He is a seasoned horse and has been competing for a few years now.

“I have won a lot of titles with him and I hope he has a few years left yet.”

The ABCRA titles, which get underway for senior riders on Wednesday, January 25, are one of the biggest national events in the sport.

The event boasts more than $100,000 and is expected to attract rodeo fans from across the country.

Despite the intense spotlight, Clifford said she was looking forward to enjoying this year’s competition.

“All the riders are friends,” she said. “We go along to an event like this to have a bit of fun.

“You have to go there and compete as you are up against some great competitors.

“I am going there to enjoy it.”