Mr Rice said if successful the event would be a significant boost for the city.

“We had 410 competitors on Saturday and 280 on Sunday, and we had in excess of 5000 people through the gates,” he said.

“The rodeo has been slowly building over the last 18 years and we will campaign for the right to hold the 2011 championships.”

Officials were impressed with the rodeo’s success and the good impression bolstered Armidale’s chances of snaring the event according to the club president.

“The plan is to continue growing the rodeo and increase prize money on offer,” he said.

“Ideally, we would also like our own venue and that is something we will look into.”

Mr Rice said the future of the event was promising due to the strong community and business support and the family nature of the weekend.

“It’s gaining in popularity and it’s a healthy sport for spirited young men,” he said.

“But it’s also a family sport because we have categories for both genders and younger age groups.”