Rodeo's Rising Stars: How Veterans Back Up-and-Comers to Make It on the World Stage
In Short:
Junior cowboys and cowgirls from Western Australia are being selected to head to America each year for advanced training and competition opportunities. This is part of a youth program developed by a Wheatbelt couple, Mark and Jo Kestel, who have informally sent dozens of junior riders to America for years.
Aja Tito, a 14-year-old from Karratha, says the trip opened her eyes to the sport's potential. She has already claimed the top spot in breakaway roping and the state title of All Around Cowgirl in just two years of rodeoing.
What's Next?
Six junior WA riders have been selected for an international trip in 2026 to train with US-based world champions and compete in international rodeos, sponsored and supported by the Kestels.
The Background Story:
Mark Kestel, who grew up in the Midwest town of Carnamah, 280 kilometres from Perth, got into the sport later in life and wanted to create more opportunities for young riders to develop their skills. He said, 'I've been rodeoing most of my life but I didn't get onto my first bull until I was 28, so I was a bit of a late starter.'
The Program's Impact:
The Kestels launched the Double Barrel Entertainment Youth Rodeo Development program in August. Aja Tito, one of the talented up-and-comers supported by the program, has already seen significant improvements. She trained under 23-time Women's Professional Rodeo Association World Champion, Jackie Crawford, and has taken out titles while in the US.
Looking Ahead:
Aja Tito will travel to Tamworth to compete in the finals for breakaway and the title All Round Cowgirl. She hopes to return to the US in 2027, continuing her journey towards becoming a champion.
