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CONGRATULATIONS JOCK CONNOLLY

07/12/2011

CONGRATULATIONS JOCK CONNOLLY

Charters Towers based former jockey, Kevin Connolly has capped of a stellar year to secure his first ever PBR Australia National Title. Leading the standings going into the 2011 Cup Series, Connolly not only matched it with the world’s best riders over the past 4 weeks but also the nation’s toughest bulls.

The 34 year old is considered to be a late starter in the sport having his first ride at just 22 years of age, a time when most riders are hitting their prime, however just after 5 years into his newly chosen profession, Connolly has managed to be a Top 10 contender since the inception of the PBR in Australia.

In 2011 he set his goals high and began the season in sensational form that allowed him to have a 26 point lead going into the Cup Series. Finishing equal 3rd and 4th at the Brisbane Invitational allowed Connolly to extend his lead, then in Townsville he suffered a hard knock, which would have sidelined many a bull rider for the remaining competition, however in true Jock Connolly style it created a much more determined and focused individual who went on to split 2nd & 3rd and placing himself in a good position for the remaining two events.

The dream run would quickly come to an end for Connolly in Newcastle, where he opted to take a re-ride only to then go on and be disqualified for slapping the bull and missing out on a shot for his 3rd consecutive short go appearance.

After the Newcastle event I began to question myself about taking that re-ride, I could have just kept the score and made the short go, but I quickly come to my senses and realized that is not who I am, I ride to win every time I nod my head, stated Connolly.

The race for the 2011 Australian Title came down to the wire, Connolly could only manage a score in the first round, however Jock’s early success in the season paid off to give him a 205 point win over Australian International, Jason O’hearn.

What was just a dream out the start of the season had now become a reality for Connolly. This just caps of an exciting time in my life, obviously becoming a father last year will be my greatest moment, but winning this title, $10 000 bonus and all that money in these past 4 weeks is going to help me achieve another family goal, giving us the money to put a deposit down on a permanent home for my family, Connolly states.

If I had to give an award for trying the hardest each and every time a rider nods his head, Jock Connolly would win it hands down each and every time states PBR Australia President, Troy Dunn. What he lacks in style he makes up with ticker, however he has very good fundamentals and that’s what allows him to get the job done on those rank bulls and he deserved to win this title he went onto say.

“This means the world to me” states 34 year old Connolly “ it has been a great year so far and the best is yet to come with the PBR also giving me the opportunity to ride in the first two rounds of the World Finals in late October, I am not getting any younger, but I am feeling really good and I want to make the most of all these new and exciting opportunities”.