Cootamundra’s Bob Holder has been officially recognised as the world’s old- est competitive cowboy, confirmed by the International Professional Rodeo Association.
Bob, who is two months shy of his 91st birthday, hails from our very own town, and he’s still riding and roping at his young age.
Bob has competed in rodeo for 76 years and proudly holds a place in the sport’s Hall of Fame.
Holder first competed at Longreach 64 years ago and did again last Saturday in Longreach’s first ever Rodeo to Rodeo event in Outback Queensland. Bob seems to defy his age and is continually a strong competitor in his chosen events with amazing physical ability that he always shows.
Holder is a former world champion bull rider and buckjump bronco rider, in a sport that has taken him to all corners of the globe, including attending the USA National Finals in Las Vegas 23 times.
Holder will now have a well-deserved rest following the Rodeo-to-Rodeo event in Longreach, before jumping back in the saddle in June, in a year in which he hopes to compete in 25 rodeos.
Bob’s daughter, Kerrie Holder, is also a champion of the sport, as she has a fantastic reputation in the APRA circuit and is the current Mount Isa Mines Rodeo Open Barrel Champion.
Well done Bob on your longevity throughout your career and your new acquired official crown of world’s oldest competitive cowboy.
Tim Warren