By Melissa Coleman
Warwick cowboy Mitch Eastwell has his eye firmly focused on the APRA National finals this year.
He’s the local favourite to beat in the roping events and with a record number of entries for all events at the Warwick Rodeo and Campdraft this year, he’s definitely one to watch.
Mitch said Warwick is a huge rodeo and it attracts the best in the country.
“You have to be on your game to win it because you’re mixing with the best.”
And the way to do that Mitch says is to focus and not think too far ahead.
The APRA National finals are happening two weeks after the Warwick Rodeo and Campdraft with the top 15 competitors going head to head for four rounds.
The winner will be crowned Australian champion for 2022.
In the past, Mitch has won the National Rodeo Association all-round title, the sports star award and was awarded the Senior Sports Star of the year and adds to these titles nearly every year.
He won the Mount Isa Rodeo calf roping event and all-rounder in 2018 and is looking to add more to his mantlepiece.
Mitch and his brothers Brock and Wade Eastwell have been dominating the rodeo scene for many years.
“There’s nothing wrong with a healthy sibling rivalry,” Mitch said.
“We practice most days after work.”
Mitch is sponsored by Buffalo Bills Western Store in Warwick.
“It’s what you have to do to win,” he said.
