Queensland-born and bred bronc riding superstar and current world champion, Damian Brennan, is gearing up for a nation-first event, the Cinch Australian Open International Bronc Match on Saturday 2 November at Scone, New South Wales.
Damian will be up against top shelve talent from international competitors from the USA and Canada including Dawson Hay, Kade Bruno, Riggin Smith and Logan Hay.
A whopping prize of $50,000 is up for grabs for first place.
Damian said he is ‘pumped’ for the event and can’t wait until it kicks off.
“It’s a big event for bronc riders, and there’s always a lot of talent competing,” he said.
“It will be interesting to see how the event plays out.”
Damian grew up in rural Queensland where his life revolved around horses and livestock.
Before delving into his outstanding bronc riding career, Damian worked on his family property, where he learned how to handle horses.
Not long after high school, Damian ventured to the USA on a full scholarship with Snyder College in Texas.
Since completing his scholarship, Damian has been named a ‘rockstar’, as he brings the authentic spirit of the Australian Outback to rodeo circuits internationally.
Recently Damian returned from a record-breaking season in the USA with career earnings surpassing $389,000.
Now in his eighth year of bronc riding, Damian believes he will continue galloping through his passionate career, along with his fellow bronc riders.
“I love the sport too much to walk away anytime soon,” he said.
“As long as my body holds up and I’m still hungry for it, I’ll keep riding.
“What I enjoy the most is the adrenaline. I also love the camaraderie with other riders—we’re all competing, but there’s a brotherhood among us.”
Damian said he is grateful for all of the support he’s had along the way.
“Special thank you to my fiancée, family, friends, and sponsors,” he said.
“It’s been a wild ride, and I’m excited for what’s still to come.
“Bronc riding has taken me places I never thought I’d go, and I’m looking forward to pushing my limits even further.”
Learn about the international bronc riders:
Riggin Smith:
With career earnings of $162,838, Smith’s personality is infectious and hilarious making him a standout to interview.
Winner of the American Royal Rodeo and the Clark County Fair and Rodeo in 2024, he was also crowned the 2019 College National Finals Rodeo Saddle Bronc Riding Champion.
Kade Bruno:
Ranked third in the world, Bruno has made a name for himself with $545,000 in career earnings and is recognised globally for his charisma and competitive edge.
Dawson Hay:
With over $844,000 in career earnings, Hay is a four-time Wrangler NFR qualifier known for his consistent performance and significant wins across North America.
Logan Hay:
Known for his engaging and comedic personality, Logan brings a captivating presence to the arena, making him a favourite among fans as he appears alongside his brother, Dawson Hay.
