Montana Jackson is off to America.
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The 12-year-old has been competing in rodeo events for six years and her hard work has finally paid off.
She recently competed at the Australian Junior High School Finals in Murrundai and finished first in the breakaway roping category, third in the barrels and third in the pole bending.
As a result, she will be taking part in the three events at the National High School Rodeo Association Finals in South Dakota in June.
"I am very excited and nervous but will give it my best shot," Jackson said.
For someone her age, she has accomplished plenty already, including winning the Southern Zone title for the U11 barrel race event in 2016 and made it to the national finals five years in a row.
She was also the runner up in the 11-14 barrel racing title earlier this year.
Being a part of the competition in America will involve costs like travel expenses, hiring horses, food and care for the horses and accommodation among others.
To make her life easier, she will be hosting fundraisers to help with the costs.
"We have a GoFundMe page and drop buckets at places like Tyre Team Goulburn, Cappo's Garage, Elders, Glendarlyn Stock feeds and Bungendore Bakery for people to donate to," Jackson's mother Monica Jackson said.
Jackson Searle was another local that made it to America following his impressive results at the Australian Senior High School Finals.
He finished fourth in the tie down roping event and second in team roping with his partner Alex Pace.
"I am really excited," the 15-year-old said.
"It has been a dream of mine for a very long time to compete in America, but to represent my country over there really tops it off."
He too is looking for donations to help with his costs.
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