FROM being sidelined by injury, to reaching the top of the Australian bull riding mountain, 2019 has been an eventful year for Troy Wilkinson.
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The Upper Horton native has spent the better part of the last 12 months working to make himself one of the toughest competitors on the professional bull riding (PBR) circuit.
Overcoming an elbow reconstruction, Wilkinson captained his state in the inaugural bull riding state of origin competition and has enjoyed plenty of success in the ring.
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Most recently, the 10-year veteran came second at the Adelaide PBR competition, as well as being the competition's aggregate points leader.
Now, Wilkinson has his eyes set on claiming glory in front of his home crowd at the PBR Iron Cowboy event in Tamworth on November 23.
"There would be nothing better than putting on a good show and picking up a win in front of my friends and family," Wilkinson told the Leader.
"Given that we compete all over Australia, my family doesn't get much of a chance to see me in action.
"Hopefully I can keep going the way I'm going and put on a good show for all of them."
In an accomplished career, Wilkinson has been crowned the 2015 APRA Bull Riding Champion, 2017 PBR Australia Champion and 2017 PBR World Finals Qualifier.
However, missing last year's Iron Cowboy event was something that inspired Wilkinson to fast-track his recovery.
"It was disappointing to miss last year's event, but that's how it goes sometimes," he said.
"I guess you could say I have a bit of a point to prove this year and I'm really getting out there in front of my home crowd."
Wilkinson said a full recovery from injury was a major factor in his recent success.
"Lately, I've been feeling fine and feeling 100 per cent fit," he said.
"Getting over the elbow injury was a bit tough at times, but I've been working hard in the gym to get it right.
"You do still get a few bumps and bruises, but I just tell myself it is only eight seconds and with how much adrenaline's running through your body, you get by."
Shortly after the Iron Cowboy event, the 29-year-old will turn his attention to riding for a different cause.
"I'll be riding in the Rodeo 4 Life event in Illawarra, which will be helping to raise money for RPA Transplant Institute," he said.
"It's a really great cause to be a part of and I'm really looking forward to it."
Wilkinson will be one of 25 cowboys competing in the event, which will see the winner take home $30,000.
"I'm really proud to have been given the opportunity to be involved in an event like this," he said.
"There should be some high quality riding and Travis Collins is doing a concert on the night.
"Hopefully it will be a great night and we can raise some money for a good cause."