Organiser Linda Williams said it was a good night, with the people of Bathurst really getting into the spirit.

It was the first time the bull ride was held in Bathurst and local Richard Treanor received the highest score of the night, with an 88-point ride. This put him in second place.

But the winner on the night was Jamie Manning, who scored an 81 and an 84.

He was the only rider to complete two rides and took home a beautiful home-made trophy for his efforts.

Third place getter Brian Dennis broke his collar bone when he came off after making time on his first ride. He was the only injury of the night. 

A total of 16 bullriders signed up for the ride of their lives at the Bathurst Showground. They came from Dubbo, Tamworth, Goulburn, Bathurst, Newcastle and Mandurama.

The top five riders went into a hat for the opportunity to ride the feature bull of the night, The Gambler, and the chance to win a $1000 purse for an eight-second ride – Bathurst’s Kirk Stanbridge was drawn out and came off after just 3.2 seconds. 

The steer and poddy events for younger riders were also very popular with the large crowd.

The steer riding was designed for the 14 to 18 year olds, while the poddy calf ride was organised for 8 to 14 year olds.

Jackson Adams of Mendooran put in a top effort, taking out the poddy ride.

By the time these events were added in, the organisers had received a total of 51 entries.

Ms Williams said the stock used on the night – which came from L and M Rodeo Company at Ilford – was “fantastic”.

She said a really good crowd also turned out for the woodchop, which proceeded the bull ride.

The Park Hotel ran the bar and local vocalist Clancy Pye entertained the crowd following the event.

“It was a fantastic night and we will build on it for next year, maybe add some saddle broncs,” Ms Williams said.