SCONE'S Heath Nichols has overcome a tough challenge from defending champion Blake Hallam to claim the coveted all-round cowboy at Tamworth.
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Nichols' overall points tally of 208.25 was enough to win the ABCRA national title, with Hallam finishing narrowly behind on 206.
The long-term cowboy's impressive competition also saw him take out the rope and tie while he came second in the team roping header and third in steer wrestling.
Nichols wasn't the only Upper Hunter rider to have success at the finals.
Willow Tree's Nichole Fitzpatrick was named national all-round cowgirl after a dominant performance saw her finish well ahead of her rivals.
Fitzpatrick ended a whopping 48 points in front of runner-up Sallie Pilgrim, and she also came second in the breakaway roping and ladies barrel race.
The annual ABCRA national finals was held from January 19-23.