NATCHEZ – No one has ever told local rodeo star James Berry that he’s too young to compete.

Case in point: a few weeks ago, James Berry celebrated his 10th birthday. A few weeks, ago, the young rodeo star also had a good showing at the finals of the Cowboys of Color held in Mesquite, Texas.

How good? Try third place in the round and third place in the average.

But what’s impressive is he was competing in the 15 and under age division that had a total of 28 participants and thousands watching on from the stands.

&uot;He was in second place at one time,&uot; said Lovia Berry, James’s mother. &uot;I felt that it was good considering he’s only 10.&uot;

But instead of receiving a trophy for his effort, James Berry was paid money.

&uot;The first place finisher got a belt buckle and cash,&uot; Mrs. Berry said.

Lovia Berry said her son will not be roping for a while.

&uot;He’ll be competing again in February (of 2002),&uot; she said.