Former Narrabri resident Melanie Drysdale, the daughter of Francis and Beth Drysdale, has two stunning victories under her belt, having only started breakaway and team roping in 2011 at the age of 20.
Competing in the Australasian Team Roping Association’s (ATRA) National finals, each event ten years apart in September 2012 and October 2022 claimed a winning title for the talented rider.
A nominee for Sportswoman of the Year at the Leeton 2023 Australia Day awards, Melanie had incredibly only been practising roping for twelve months at the time of her 2012 win.
Currently residing on a property at Leeton in the Riverina region, Melanie and her partner Corey Heath travelled to Capella in Queensland, never expecting that history would repeat itself after an absence of nine years from the ATRA national finals.
Qualifying regulations were eased for the event with the past three years of COVID having taken its toll on horse shows and eventing across the country.
The qualifying factor for the 2022 titles was to have won three jackpot events anywhere in Australia.
Having both won three regional roping events during the year, Melanie and Corey headed off to Queensland, a journey which took a week to complete with prized horses on board.
Competing against some tough competition, Melanie worked her way through to the finals, the events encompassing team roping and breakaway roping.
It was in the breakaway roping section where Melanie outclassed her rival competitors, taking home the title with a cash prize, new buckle and a customised saddle.
“Corey and I had a fantastic time at the Nationals,” said Melanie.
“To win this title again after nine years was an exhilarating feeling.
“I love the sport and enjoy the ‘family’ feel that envelopes horse eventing.
“The roping events that we participate in, wherever we are, always feel like we are surrounded by one big family.”
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