Bundaberg & District Extreme Cowboy Racing members have achieved outstanding success at the 2026 Australian EXCA Nationals, held in Victoria, after travelling more than 4,000 kilometres to compete.
The prestigious national event attracted competitors from across the country, with Bundaberg Club riders delivering exceptional performances across multiple divisions.
The weekend commenced with the Downunder Extreme Cowboys Challenge, where Tiani Cook competed on Friday and Saturday night with her horses Dually and Tin Tin. Cook placed second with Dually in the opening round, securing a place in the Top 10 Final, and returned on Saturday night to finish fourth.
Competition continued with the National Championships, held over two days, where Bundaberg Club riders consistently placed among the top competitors.
In Round 1, Deb McGhee secured first place in Intermediate and third in Ride Smart. Tiani Cook delivered a strong performance, placing first in Non-Pro and second in Open, while Eva Hughes claimed first place in the Youth division.
Round 2 saw continued success, with McGhee again placing first in Intermediate and going on to win Ride Smart. Cook placed fourth in Non-Pro and second in Open, while Hughes maintained her form, securing another first-place finish in Youth.
Following two days of competition, Bundaberg Club riders achieved remarkable overall results. McGhee was crowned National Champion in both Intermediate and Ride Smart divisions, while Cook secured third place in Non-Pro and was named Reserve Champion in the Open division. Hughes was awarded National Champion in the Youth division.
Adding to their success, Deb McGhee and Tiani Cook will be representing Australia at the World EXCA Championships, to be held in Glen Rose, Texas, in October 2026.
Bundaberg & District Extreme Cowboy Racing President Mick McGhee said the results were a reflection of years of dedication and hard work.
“We are incredibly proud of our riders and what they have achieved at a national level,” he said. “The level of competition was very high, and to see our members perform so consistently is a testament to their commitment, their horses and the support within our Club.”
The results highlight the dedication, skill and commitment of Bundaberg Club riders, who continue to perform at a high level on the national stage.
Event organisers Downunder Extreme Cowboys were praised for delivering a professional and well-run competition. Recognition was also given to Canadian judge David Cowley for designing challenging and engaging courses, as well as to the volunteers and Victorian competitors who contributed to the success of the event.
The strong performances from the Bundaberg Club riders reflect the growing strength of Extreme Cowboy Racing in the region, with anticipation already building for next year’s National Championships to be held in Queensland.
(Eva with Judge David)
Supplied by Deb McGhee
Chitchat Newspaper. June 2026.