Jon Templeton from Kingaroy took out the main prize in the Curley Cattle Transport Classic Stockman’s Challenge at the recent 2017 Cloncurry Stockman’s Challenge event held from July 12 - 16. Templeton, who has been drafting since he was a kid, said the win a second time around was a great feeling.  “It feels very satisfying especially with all the work that goes into getting a horse ready for a competition like Cloncurry,” Templeton said of his victory. “Winning for the horse owners and making their day is pretty cool as well.”  Back home now, Jon will take a few days off before “starting to work on next year’s horses and a few drafts in the Spring.”  See our photo gallery from the weekend action here To take out the title, Jon had to complete two demonstrations including a ‘dry’ section with a pattern ridden before two judges in order to display the horse’s athleticism, ability and training while exhibiting the rider’s horsemanship. The second requires horse and rider to work cattle in a similar manner to a campdraft course. This year’s event saw the most entries in the event’s history, and with more than 1200 spectators and competitors, the event organisers have claimed the event was a huge success. “We had an accident free event and by all accounts we are excited for the atmosphere and conversation the event has generated amongst locals and competitors who travelled to Cloncurry,” the event’s secretary Stacey Robertson said This year’s event also saw up and coming draftsmen compete in the junior challenge and campdrafts, something Ms Robertson said was encouraging. “These youngsters are the future of our sport and we love seeing their dedication and enthusiasm,” she said. “These are the riders that will become our next generation of campdrafters and we want to thank the judges for taking the effort to encourage them in their competition skills.” Spectators were also treated to a program full of live music and entertainment including free concerts from up and coming country rock performer Ray Ryder. Full competition results and 2018 event details can be viewed online at www.currychallenge.com.au.