Don't Let Go!!

PhotographerGill Williams
PrizeSilver in Press / Sports
Entry Description

Tie-down roping is a competitive rodeo sport that arose out of the working practices of cattle herding in Spain, Mexico, and later Central America, the United States, Canada, South America, Australia and New Zealand, and tests the skills of those involved. Despite certain countries banning rodeos or placing restrictions on certain practices, events and equipment used they are still a popular sporting event that attracts many supporters and competitors alike. There is huge opposition from animal rights and animal welfare advocates, who argue that various competitions constitute animal cruelty yet this sport continues around the world. I wanted the viewer's attention focused on the action happening in this photograph. I also wanted to inspire the viewer to think about if this practice is inherently inhumane and has no place in the civilized world or is in fact an acceptable form of entertainment?