Joe Fitzgerald, of Garman NSW, has witnessed some significant changes to the event which was first held at Moonbi Showgrounds.

Fitzgerald is now 72 years of age and battles Parkinsons Disease but is still competing in the Non Professional division where he manages to hold his own with opposition less than half his age.

“I’ve been involved in cutting for over 30 years as an owner, a competitor and a breeder,” Fitzgerald said.

“About five years ago at Paradise Lagoon I had a bad fall which has contributed to my illness.

“I’ve seen a lot of changes over the years, particularly from when the event was held at Moonbi,” Fitzgerald said.

Fitzgerald can also boast being the owner of a Futurity Champion when, in 2004, EW Rooster took out the title and backed this win up a year later with victory in the Open Derby with Frank Green in the saddle on both occasions.

“EW Rooster was the best horse I’d ever ridden but unfortunately we lost him two years after his Derby win. We were lucky enough to get six broodmares by him,” Fitzgerald said.

Not only does the Futurity hold many fond memories for Fitzgerald but it continues to serve him well.

“There are so many more younger people getting involved in cutting. Each event I go to I see new faces,” Fitzgerald said.

“The Futurity also gives me the opportunity to promote my younger horses,” Fitzgerald said.

Fitzgerald competed in the Seven Star Quarter Horse Non Pro Futurity and will be watching the finals with interest before preparing for upcoming events.

“Next up I’ll be competing at Toowoomba and Elmore with my horses in both the Futurity and Classic Challenge,” Fitzgerald said.

 Day 7 NCHA Futurity action had the first go-round of the Ross Watson Agriculture Non Pro Derby.

Leading the Non Pro Derby after round one is Ian Bush of Alpha, Queensland, riding Stylish Lady Lena ahead of Kirrily Simpkins of Kilkivan, Queensland on Katastic and Dean Bradley of Koyuga, Victoria on Shesa Skillycat in second and third places respectively.