The world of rodeo is witnessing an exciting surge as emerging talents, supported by seasoned veterans, strive to shine on the international stage.
Just recently, junior cowboys and cowgirls from Western Australia (WA) have been getting selected each year for remarkable training and competitive opportunities in America. A prime example of this is 14-year-old Aja Tito from Karratha, who expresses that her experiences abroad have broadened her understanding of the sport's vast potential.
Looking ahead, six young riders from WA have been chosen for a prestigious international trip in 2026. These promising individuals are being flown across the globe to learn directly from the champions of rodeo, thanks to an initiative spearheaded by a couple from the Wheatbelt region.
For many years, Mark and Jo Kestel, known as WA’s rodeo royalty, have taken it upon themselves to send numerous junior competitors to the United States for advanced training and competition, often at their own cost. Mark Kestel, who hails from the small town of Carnamah, located about 280 kilometers from Perth, did not begin his rodeo journey until later in life and is now dedicated to creating more avenues for young riders to refine their craft.
"I’ve been involved in rodeo for most of my life, but I didn’t get onto my first bull until I turned 28, so I was definitely a late starter," Kestel shared. "There’s just something incredibly addictive about the adrenaline and endorphins you experience while riding in rodeos."
Eager to share this exhilarating feeling with the upcoming generation, the Kestels established the Double Barrel Entertainment Youth Rodeo Development program back in August. This initiative has successfully chosen a cohort of six WA riders set to travel to the United States in 2026, where they will undergo training under some of the world’s top rodeo champions and participate in international competitions, all with the Kestels’ sponsorship and support.
Mr. Kestel noted that the landscape of training for young rodeo enthusiasts has transformed significantly over the years. "In the past, there were cowboy camps where participants would stay and train twice a week, but those times have changed," he explained. "Western Australia boasts an incredible wealth of talent among our junior cowboys and cowgirls, and my wife and I are committed to ensuring they receive every possible opportunity to succeed."
Among the gifted individuals benefitting from this program is Aja Tito, who has already secured the top rank in breakaway roping—a timed challenge where a rider on horseback lassos a calf around the neck to stop the clock. Additionally, she has won the state title of All-Around Cowgirl after only two years of participating in rodeo activities.
Aja attributes her success to the invaluable mentoring she has received from experienced figures in the sport, particularly during her recent trip to the United States as part of the mentoring program. "Traveling around the world has truly been the best way for me to discover what’s achievable in rodeo," she said.
During her time in the U.S., she had the unique opportunity to train with Jackie Crawford, a 23-time Women’s Professional Rodeo Association World Champion. "Under Jackie’s guidance, I learned how to adjust my swing for better efficiency and enhance my horse’s performance," Aja reflected. "Jackie is a legendary figure in the sport, and the lessons I learned from her have propelled me to the top of my game.
Every child who has traveled to the U.S. through this program has shown significant improvement, with some even winning titles while competing there.
Aja is gearing up to head to Tamworth soon, where she will compete in the finals for both breakaway roping and the All-Round Cowgirl title, and she has set her sights on returning to the U.S. in 2027.
This initiative not only showcases the dedication of the Kestels but also highlights the immense potential of young riders in WA. What do you think about the support being extended to these young athletes? Do you believe such programs are crucial for developing future champions in rodeo? Share your thoughts in the comments!
