Rodeo Attitude

Championship Bull Riding Welcomes Two New Members to Strategic Partnerships Team

cindymeyers — Thu, 09 May 2013 16:39:58 +0000

Photo courtesy CBR

Fort Worth, Texas (May 8th, 2013) –Following the recent addition of SportsStar Inc. to the CBR Sales and Marketing team comes the announcement Championship Bull Riding (CBR) has added two new team members to their growing roster. Michael Dixon and Ben Cambra join the Strategic Partnerships Team effective immediately.
Mr. Dixon comes from a familiar western lifestyle background. He previously led the National High School Rodeo Association as their CEO. His focus will be tactical planning and management for CBR partnerships. His strengths in brand management and partnership implementation lend to a strong unit within the marketing sales team.
Mr. Cambra brings many years of experience in sports television having worked in an executive role in telecasts on a host of networks including ESPN, CBS, FOX, and CNBC. Mr. Cambra possesses vast experience in sales and sponsorship in all types of media including digital, mobile and social. Other attributes he brings with him to the CBR are his expertise in contract negotiations, sponsorship activation within a national televised show and his vast knowledge of partnership fulfillment. In addition, his robust knowledge of business development will enhance the goals of this newly formed team.
“This is a new era in CBR,” stated Benny Cude, CEO. “We have a world class production and a solid television deal. I’m proud of this Strategic Partnerships Team we have built and I know they will be the ones to drive this vehicle into the future and open up a realm of opportunity.”

Professional Bull Riders announce unique social media partnership with legendary rock band

cindymeyers — Thu, 09 May 2013 15:48:42 +0000

KISS Photo courtesy PBR

Courtesy PBR

PUEBLO, Colo. (May 7, 2013) – GIVE US YOUR BEST KISS! That is what legendary rock band KISS and the fast-growing PBR will be asking millions of fans at Professional Bull Riders events across the country beginning this weekend at the nationally televised Last Cowboy Standing event from Mandalay Bay in Las Vegas. Today, PBR and KISS announce a partnership that brings together two powerful and iconic brands in a fan-focused alliance that will delight and entertain.

PBR and KISS have teamed up to create the 8-Second KISS Kam, an innovative twist on the long-standing tradition in many sports venues where couples in the audience are highlighted on the large, in-venue video screens and encouraged to engage in a public display of affection. In typical PBR and KISS fashion, the innovative KISS Kam has a twist. Just like a successful bull ride, our participants are timed with a digital clock and must kiss for 8 seconds or face the ridicule of tens of thousands of PBR fans.

Band members Paul Stanley, Tommy Thayer, Eric Singer and Gene Simmons cheer fans on and provide constructive criticism via video during the promotion. Videos from the 8-second kissing couples will be recorded and posted online at www.pbr.com/KISS where visitors can vote for the best (or worst) kiss and register to win valuable PBR and KISS prizes.

Is there a MONSTER in the house? In support of KISS’s new MONSTER album and other great albums from the past 40 years, there are half-a-dozen new MONSTERs in PBR arenas nationwide. PBR and KISS have teamed up to name six world-class bucking bulls after KISS albums; KISS Monster, KISS Destroyer, KISS Animalize, KISS Revenge, KISS Love Gun and KISS Psycho Circus.

These top-ranked animal athletes will face off against the Top 35 bull riders in the world at prestigious Built Ford Tough Series events for years to come. The PBR’s Built Ford Tough Series features 26 events across the country from Madison Square Garden to Cowboys Stadium to Anaheim and points in-between. All Built Ford Tough Series events are televised nationally on CBS and CBS Sports Network.

The collaboration between PBR and KISS will officially launch Friday, May 10, when both the KISS Kam and bulls from the KISS team will be unveiled at the prestigious PBR Last Cowboy Standing event held at the Mandalay Bay Events Center May 10 and 11. The event is nationally televised on CBS on Saturday, May 11 and Sunday, May 12 from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. ET.

“Some see this as an unlikely pairing,” said Stanley, KISS front man. “But it’s quite the opposite. PBR fans have a passion that we relate to and want to be a part of. They span cultures, stereotypes and countries. They are our kind of people. The 8-Second KISS Kam is a great way for fans to show their passion for both.”

“And that’s no BULL…” Added Gene Simmons.

KISS THIS BULL!

This relationship will introduce KISS to a new, passionate audience that has been entertained at PBR events by KISS’ music for many years. PBR’s adrenaline-packed, bull riding-only events are wrapped in a rock concert environment with plenty of pyrotechnics and fire, a hallmark of the hottest band in the world.

“KISS and PBR have a lot more audience crossover than some might think,” said PBR Chief Operating Officer Sean Gleason. “KISS is an icon of rock music celebrating their 40th anniversary this year; PBR has been wrapping itself in a rock concert environment for years, playing KISS’s music during our live events throughout our 20-year history.”

About the Professional Bull Riders, Inc. (PBR)
The world’s premier bull riding organization, the PBR, celebrates 20 years of competition with the 2013 season. In just two decades, the dream of 20 bull riders has become a global sports phenomenon with PBR broadcasts reaching more than half a billion households in 50 nations and territories around the world, and more than 2.5 million fans attending live events each year. PBR has paid out more than $120 million in earnings to its athletes, and 26 riders have earned more than $1 million, including Justin McBride with $5.5 million ― the most of any western sports athlete in history. For more information on the PBR, go to www.pbr.com, or follow on Facebook at www.facebook.com/PBR, Twitter at http://twitter.com/PBR, and YouTube at http://www.YouTube.com/PBR.

About KISS:
Celebrating their 40th Anniversary in 2013, KISS remains one of the most influential bands in the history of rock and roll. As one of America’s top gold-record champions, KISS has sold more than 100 million albums worldwide — including their chart topping 20th studio album Monster album produced by Paul Stanley and released in 2012. In support of the album, the band launched the Worldwide Monster Tour in Australia and will continue to rock the globe with dates announced in Europe and North America and more dates coming soon. With over 3,000 licensed products including a Monster Mini Golf Course in Las Vegas, KISS Coffee Shop in Myrtle Beach, SC and the 3rd Annual KISS Kruise sailing in October, the KISS legacy continues to grow, generation after generation.

PRCA News and Notes May 6, 2013

cindymeyers — Mon, 06 May 2013 23:44:18 +0000

Courtesy PRCA

Smith hopes Guymon triumph an omen

“A talisman is an object which is believed to contain certain magical properties which would provide good luck for the possessor and possibly offer protection from evil or harm.”

— Wikipedia

GUYMON, Okla. – It was a weekend calculated to enhance Tyler Smith’s belief in talismans, at least very specific, fraught-with-history talismans – nothing so mundane as a lucky penny, four-leaf clover or rabbit’s foot.

No, Smith put his faith in the belt buckle he won as the 2010 Guymon Pioneer Days Rodeo bull riding champion – the power of positive thinking wrapped around his center of gravity – and his return to glory at the Henry C. Hitch Arena came off without a hitch.

The Fruita, Colo., cowboy rode Carr Pro Rodeo’s Rio Bravo for 93 points, which was not just good enough to pull off his second win in Guymon in four years, it was also the highest-scored ride in his six years in ProRodeo and equal to the highest-scored ride in the 2013 season (Brett Stall also had a 93-pointer in Denver).

At the heart of Smith’s fashion choice was the knowledge that the last time he won in Guymon (on a 90-point ride) was the only year he qualified for the Wrangler National Finals Rodeo and another winner’s check (of $3,791) would be a very tangible step back toward the Las Vegas stage in December.

“I’ve got my Guymon belt on; it’s been good luck,” said Smith, after he took the lead on May 4. “Hopefully (this means) I’ll get another one.”

“I’ve had real good luck here. I love coming here.”

With wins earlier this season at La Fiesta de los Vaqueros in Tucson, Ariz., and the Rapid City (S.D.) Xtreme Bulls, Smith comes out of Guymon in second place in the world standings, $7,938 back of Josh Koschel. After the 2010 Guymon win, Smith was second in the world behind Shawn Hogg, and ended the season third with $156,132.

So, yeah, the win was a good omen, but the level of his performance was an even better one.

Until Smith climbed onboard him for the May 4 performance, Rio Bravo had been unridden in 10 outings this season without anybody getting past the five-second mark.

“He’s real little,” Smith said. “He probably weighed only 1,000 pounds. He sucked back and got my feet behind me. I shot forward and got my feet set back down. Because he’s so little, it was hard to keep my feet down on him.”

The judges recognized the challenges presented by the bull and rewarded Smith. His 93 points was four points better than runner-up Parker Breding and five up on Koschel and Cody Whitney, who tied for third place.

The other champions at this $305,723 rodeo were bareback rider Seth Hardwick (88 points), steer wrestler Stockton Graves (12.5 seconds on three head), team ropers Charly Crawford and Ryan Motes (21.1 seconds on three head), saddle bronc rider Heith DeMoss (87 points), tie-down roper Cade Swor (25.7 seconds on three head), steer roper Rocky Patterson (67.5 seconds on five head) and barrel racer Michelle McLeod (34.57 seconds on two runs).

Permit holder puts up a 90 in Bakersfield

When Casey Meroshnekoff put up a 90 on Big Stone, Moreno & Growney’s Blue Bayou to win the Kern County Sheriff’s Reserve Stampede Days Rodeo in Bakersfield, Calif., it tied him with reigning World Champion Kaycee Feild and Wrangler National Finals Rodeo qualifier Winn Ratliff for the highest-scored bareback ride of the 2013 season.

Where Meroshnekoff is all alone this year – and just about any other year – is that he is a permit holder. No, that’s not precise enough. Meroshnekoff is a 19-year-old permit holder from Red Bluff, Calif., who just put in his paperwork with the PRCA 45 days ago.

“The highest score I’ve ever had was an 87 (at an amateur rodeo), so I was a little surprised,” Meroshnekoff said. “I mean I knew it was a good ride and I thought it would be in the 80s, but I figured I’m the new guy and it will take awhile for me to prove myself with the judges. I certainly didn’t think I’d get a 90.”

Even disregarding the eye-catching score, he’s off to good start with that whole proving himself thing. Bakersfield was his second PRCA rodeo (he was eighth in his debut two weeks ago in Lakeside, Calif.) and he came back on May 5 to win the Stonyford (Calif.) Rodeo with an 83-point ride. That’s three checks in three tries and two wins.

Meroshnekoff’s Bakersfield check for $1,223 was enough by itself to make him eligible to buy his PRCA card – and he’s decided not to wait.

“I’ll go ahead and buy it sometime in the next few days,” Meroshnekoff said, “and make a run at the Rookie of the Year award.”

Rodeo fans in California have been keenly aware of Meroshnekoff’s skill set for a while now. He won the National High School Finals Rodeo bareback riding title as a sophomore, finished fourth as a junior and won it again last year as a senior.

As a freshman at West Hills College in Coalinga, Calif., he is leading the West Coast Region of the National Intercollegiate Rodeo Association in bareback riding, bull riding, team roping (heeling) and the all-around, while also competing in tie-down roping.

The other champions at the $45,882 rodeo in Bakersfield were steer wrestler Sterling Lambert (3.8 seconds), team ropers Clint White/Brent Lockett and Travis Xavier/Jake Twisselman (6.3 seconds each), rookie saddle bronc rider Landon Mecham (88 points), tie-down roper Ryle Smith (9.3 seconds), bull rider Allen Helmuth (89 points) and barrel racer Sydni Blanchard (17.16 seconds). Kyle Lockett claimed the all-around title with $1,741, competing in steer wrestling, team roping and tie-down roping.

• Hearne, Texas, steer wrestler Derek Stewart, already having a breakout season, gave himself a nice early-by-a couple-of-days birthday present with a win at the Helotes (Texas) Festival Association Rodeo. Stewart, who turns 27 on May 7, had a time of 3.8 seconds on opening night of the May 2-4 rodeo and it held up against the challenges of Reserve World Champion Casey Martin (4.1), Logan Gledhill and four-time Wrangler NFR qualifier Matt Reeves (4.5 each). It was Stewart’s first win after runner-up finishes in Allen, Texas, and Matagorda, Texas, and the check for $1,267 moved him to 23^rd in the world standings with $10,326 – more than he had earned in his first two seasons in ProRodeo combined. He was 157^th in the world last year with $6,112. Other champions at this $44,295 rodeo were bareback rider Ryan Gray (85 points), team ropers Chris Lawson and Randall Richards (6.2 seconds), saddle bronc rider Jacobs Crawley (86 points), tie-down roper Justin Macha (10.5 seconds), bull riders Jarrod Craig and Bonner Blue Bolton (80 points each) and barrel racer Cassie Moseley (15.38 seconds). Rookie Caleb Smidt won the all-around title with $1,481 in tie-down roping and team roping.

Super 8 hotel chain extends PRCA sponsorship

COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. – ProRodeo fans across the country can now continue to save at their favorite Super 8® hotels, thanks to the brand’s renewed sponsorship of the Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association (PRCA) in the United States and Canada.

Entering into its third year, the sponsorship includes a 15 percent discount at all participating Super 8 hotels for PRCA members and fans who book at www.super8rodeo.com; a major presence for the Super 8 brand on www.prorodeo.com; and the return of the “Super 8 Second Clock” during the PRCA’s Xtreme Bulls GAC TV coverage, among others.

“We are excited to once again be partnering with the PRCA and showcasing our support for organizations that closely align the passions and interests of our guests,” said Heny Gabay, vice president of marketing for Super 8. “With nearly 1,900 locations throughout the U.S. and Canada, standard amenities like free Wi-Fi and free SuperStart® breakfast, Super 8 hotels are the perfect choice for PRCA members and fans as they hit the road this rodeo season.”

As an added benefit, PRCA members and fans can also earn valuable points for their stays at Super 8 hotels through Wyndham Rewards®, the brand’s free-to-join guest loyalty program. Once earned, points can be redeemed for hundreds of reward options, including free hotel stays, air travel, gift cards for leading retailers and restaurants and more. For more information or to enroll, visit www.wyndhamrewards.com.

“Travel costs, including lodging, are a major expense for our membership,” said PRCA Commissioner Karl Stressman. “We’re thrilled to be continuing our partnership with the Super 8 brand. Not only do they help our members save, but with thousands of hotels, they have locations near most of our 600-plus sanctioned rodeos. They can be found in big cities as well as small communities – just like the PRCA.”

PRCA pickup man Hopping dies of apparent heart attack

PRCA pickup man Coke Hopping suffered an apparent heart attack while working in the arena at the Helotes (Texas) Festival Association Rodeo on May 2 and died later that evening at a San Antonio hospital. He was 55.

Hopping was coming to the assistance of the fourth bareback rider of the rodeo’s opening night when he suddenly leaned to one side and fell off his horse.

Paramedics rushed to assist him in the arena, performing CPR, using a heart defibrillator and administering epinephrine to get him breathing again, but the damage was too great and he died after being transported 11 miles to University Hospital in San Antonio.

A graduate of Texas Tech University and the Texas Christian Ranch Management program, Hopping was due to complete his PhD May 6 at Texas A&M.

He had been working with several PRCA staff members on his research on bareback riders for that degree; he had been a bareback rider himself in his days as a rodeo competitor.

Hopping was a ranch manager for the EnCana Oil and Gas Company, in Franklin, Texas.

He is survived by his wife, Edie; daughter, Dancey Creel; and two sons, current PRCA bullfighter Clint and former PRCA member Tate.

A slide show tribute has been posted on YouTube (www.youtube.com/watch?v=hJ5QiVjgjHo)

Richmond, a top hand for six decades, dies at 93

COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. – George Richmond, an inductee in the Montana ProRodeo Hall and Wall of Fame and a former Columbia River Circuit steer roping champion who competed in PRCA rodeos well into his 80s, died May 2 at his home in Hayden Lake, Idaho. He was 93.

Richmond made his first appearance in a PRCA rodeo in 1942 in Belle Fourche, S.D., and – even during three years’ service at Fort Robinson (Neb.) during World War II as a U.S. Army corporal – he never stopped competing with great skill in all the timed-event disciplines.

The man who carried PRCA card No. 14 won all-around titles in Ellensburg, Wash., and Molalla, Ore., along with tie-down roping buckles in Puyallup, Wash.; Missoula, Mont., and Billings, Mont., during the 1950s and extended his career decades longer by focusing on steer roping.

Richmond was 65 when he won the steer roping titles in Moses Lake, Wash., and Walla Walla, Wash., while earning a check at the Pendleton (Ore.) Round-Up, on his way to becoming the 1985 Columbia River Circuit year-end champion. He qualified for the Ram Columbia River Circuit Finals Rodeo for the last time in 1991.

From 1943 through 1999, Richmond competed in nearly every steer roping event at the Cheyenne (Wyo.) Frontier Days. He started going to Pendleton in 1947 and was still capable enough to stand fourth in a field of 68 after the first day of steer roping in 1991.

He made his last competitive appearance in Pendleton in 2004 – finishing fourth in the Gold Card Steer Roping when he was 84 – and he was inducted into the Pendleton Round-Up Hall of Fame last year.

When his career as a full-time cowboy ended around 1960, Richmond and his wife, Alberta, moved from Park City, Mont., and bought a cattle ranch in Hayden Lake, Idaho. Over the years, he also owned a real estate business, worked as a rodeo announcer and ran a tie-down roping school, where one of his students was future World Champion Jeff Copenhaver.

Richmond’s wife preceded him in death on Feb. 24, 2013. He is survived by sons, Dave (Lori) and Lee (Jan), and daughters, JoAnne Nielsen (Tom) and Jeanne Northfield, and 10 grandchildren. Both Lee and Dave were also PRCA competitors; Lee was the 1987 Columbia River Circuit year-end steer roping champion.

Services are scheduled for 10 a.m. May 9 at the Prairie Cowboy Church with a reception to follow and burial at 1:30 p.m. at the Coeur d’Alene Gardens. Yates Funeral Home in Hayden Lake (www.yatesfuneralhomes.com/_mgxroot/page_10718.php) is handling the arrangements.

News and notes from the rodeo trail

Reigning and two-time World Champion Team Roping Header Chad Masters underwent his second knee surgery April 30 in Dallas, this time to repair damage to his ACL. Masters had surgery in early March that dealt with a ruptured patellar tendon, a torn MCL and medial and lateral meniscus tears, all the result of injuries suffered while steer wrestling at the Timed Event Championship of the World in Guthrie, Okla., March 1. Masters, of Clarksville, Tenn., is hoping to be able to return to competition this summer … There is much happier news to report from the reigning World Champion Team Roping Heeler. Jade Corkill, of Fallon, Nev., and his longtime girlfriend, Haley Brum, got married April 28 in Las Vegas … Rodeo pioneers Earl Bascomand Raymond Knight, both born in Utah but who worked extensively in both the U.S. and Canada, are being inducted into the Alberta Sports Hall of Fame in Red Deer on May 24 for their long and varied contributions to the cowboy sport. Bascom, born near Vernal, Utah, was a rodeo competitor in multiple events for nearly a quarter-century and was also a rodeo producer, stock contractor, hazer, rodeo clown, bullfighter, pickup man and announcer, while earning an international reputation as a sculptor of western-themed art. Knight, born on a ranch near Payson, Utah, in 1872, is credited with staging the first rodeo in Canada. He won tie-down roping competitions at the Calgary Stampede in 1917-19 and later supplied stock for the iconic Canadian rodeo and served as its stock manager … After 40 years of service, the bucking chutes at the Casey Tibbs Arena in Fort Pierre, S.D., are being replaced as part of a $100,000 renovation that will also include a new crow’s nest for the announcer and new pens for holding stock. All the work will be done in time for the South Dakota Capitol Legends PRCA Rodeo over the Fourth of July weekend, said Tom Brown of the Casey Tibbs Foundation … Caldwell (Idaho) Night Rodeo Committee officials Jim Bower and Terry Scott presented a check for $7,000 to the Boise Rescue Mission on April 30 to fund its transitional living program for homeless veterans … Rehme Sutton, the sister of former PRCA saddle bronc rider and second-term South Dakota State RepresentativeBillie Sutton, is releasing her debut album on May 7 and holding a promotional party May 10 at the City Limits nightclub in Stephenville, Texas. The album, called Long Road Home, features a couple of rodeo-themed tracks, including one about her brother and the way he has responded to the injury that ended his rodeo career in 2008. For more information, and to hear Billie’s Song, visit http://rehmesutton.com/site … The Cheyenne (Wyo.) Frontier Days has been named one of the nation’s top 10 summer festivals by Livability.com, a national website that ranks quality of life and travel amenities in America’s small- and mid-sized towns. Cheyenne was chosen for its success in promoting tourism, fostering community pride and raising money for worthy causes …Shorty Dorweiler, CEO of Farmers State Bank of Hamel, Minn., and operations manager of the Hamel Rodeo, is the 2013 recipient of the Lifetime Excellence Award, presented by the I-94 West Chamber of Commerce in Rogers, Minn., in recognition of an individual’s contribution to the community. Dorweiler’s years on the professional rodeo circuit as a bull rider, along with a sense of community spirit, led to the creation of the Hamel Rodeo and Bull Ridin’ Bonanza, which is now in its 33^rd year. The Rodeo is produced by nonprofit community service organizations and proceeds are divided equally among the organizations to be returned to the community … Lufkin, Texas, resident John Kennedy drove a new Ram pickup truck off the lot at Southern Chrysler Jeep Dodge as the winner of the raffle held as part of the April 24-27 Angelina Benefit Rodeo in his hometown.

QUOTES OF THE WEEK

“Ty Erickson has all the ability in the world to be able to go and win a (steer wrestling) world title. I’ve watched a lot of kids come up through the ranks for the last 20 years, and Ty is right up there. He’s real, real smart and knows what he has to do to take care of business.”

– University of Great Falls (Mont.) rodeo coach Dick Lyman, telling the Great Falls Tribune what makes the Montana State senior (and 2012 PRCA Resistol Rookie of the Year) a special talent.

“Tarleton is to college rodeo what Kentucky is to college basketball. It’s the biggest program in the country with more than 100 kids, and it’s also the best rodeo program in the country.”

— Tarleton State Coach Mark Eakin, telling the Stephenville (Texas) Empire-Tribune just what he thinks of his team as they approach the College National Finals Rodeo with eight men and four women qualified.

Upcoming Events

May 8 Jasper (Texas) Lions Benefit Rodeo begins

May 9 Bridgeport (Texas) Permit Steer Roping

May 9 Crockett (Texas) Lions Club PRCA Rodeo begins

May 9 Mineral Wells (Texas) Rodeo begins

May 9 Stavely (Alberta) Indoor ProRodeo begins

May 10 Sussex Christian School Pro Rodeo, Augusta, N.J.

May 10 Butterfield Stage Days PRCA Rodeo, Bridgeport, Texas, begins

May 11 Cowboy Rodeo, Berlin, N.J.

May 11 Mother Lode Round-Up, Sonora, Calif., begins

May 11 Woodlake (Calif.) Lions Rodeo begins

Championship Bull Riding Hosts Event In West Texas Event Will Benefit Community Affected By Tragic Explosion

cindymeyers — Mon, 06 May 2013 19:32:14 +0000

Courtesy CBR

Championship Bull Riding (CBR) will host an event in West, Texas, June 1, 2013. The “First Responder’s Memorial CBR Benefit” will benefit the West Volunteer Fire Department – Special Victims Fund which will assist the victims of a catastrophic explosion that occurred at a fertilizer facility in April.
CBR previously worked with the West Fair and Rodeo Committee to produce Bullfest in West, a tremendously popular Horizon Series event held annually for the last two years in June. Tragically, one of the directors responsible for Bullfest in West, William “Buck” Uptmor, was one of the first responders killed in the explosion. After hearing of the heartbreaking events, CBR management decided to take matters into their own hands and help the community of West by allowing the event to continue as a benefit.
“We are tremendously touched by the events that have transpired in West. These are our neighbors and our friends. We knew we could not stand by. We had to take action and help,” stated CBR Chairman, Benny Cude.
The entire production of the event will be donated, everything from stock to tickets, as well as all proceeds will benefit the West Volunteer Fire Department – Special Victims Fund.
In addition Cleo Franklin, Mahindra USA – Vice President of Marketing and Strategic Planning made a special announcement, “Mahindra is humbled and honored to partner with Championship Bull Riding for the ‘First Responder’s Memorial CBR Benefit’ to support the West Volunteer Fire Department and the West community. Mahindra has been a long-time partner with the CBR and when they shared their plans to help West, we wanted to do our part as well to help the victims and their families of this tragedy in our home state of Texas. Mahindra will donate our industry-redefining Mahindra Max 22 professional-grade tractor with all proceeds going to the West Volunteer Fire Department – Special Victims Fund. The ‘First Responder’s Memorial CBR Benefit’ is an example of people and organizations coming together to help West recover, rebuild and RISE from this tragic event.”
“What the CBR has offered to do for us is amazing, “stated Mark Cunningham, a West Fair and Rodeo Vice President. Cunningham, also the best friend of “Buck” continued, “These have been the longest two weeks of our lives. This gives us all something to look forward to, a little normalcy, which is what we are needing now. Hopefully, it will help us all to begin the healing process.”
Championship Bull Riding has also launched “Buy a Ticket for West”- a fundraising campaign on the CBR Website, www.CBRBull.com/donate,that gives everyone the opportunity to make a donation. All the money donated to the “Buy a Ticket for West” will go towards the purchase of tickets for the community of West. Proceeds raised by “First Responder’s Memorial CBR Benefit” will be donated to the West Volunteer Fire Department- Special Victims Fund. Special thanks to the CBR Corporate Sponsors who are helping to make this possible. Mahindra USA, CINCH, Evan Williams, Smokey Mountain Snuff.
Who: “First Responder’s Memorial CBR Benefit”-Benefits The West Volunteer Fire Department – Special Victims Fund
When: Saturday June 1st, 2013
Where: West Rodeo Grounds
Time: 7:00PM
Tickets: All tickets just $10- BUY A TICKET FOR WEST donations can be made atWWW.CBRBull.com/donate

PRCA Weekly News and Notes April 29, 2013

JamesDean — Fri, 03 May 2013 02:24:34 +0000

Courtesy PRCA

Wright surpasses $2 million mark with win in Clovis

CLOVIS, Calif. – Cody Wright continued his dominant 2013 campaign at the Clovis Rodeo Arena on April 28 when he scored 86 points on Burch Rodeo Company’s Friendly Fire to earn $5,615.

Not only is the eldest Wright brother atop the saddle bronc riding world standings, but he also joined an exclusive club with his triumph at the Clovis Rodeo, a silver event on the Wrangler Million Dollar Tour, presented by Justin Boots.

The win pushed Wright over the $2 million threshold in career earnings, making him the 20^th member of that fraternity, as he chases his third world championship this season.

“It feels really good to go over $2 million dollars, but I just wish I had all of it right now,” Wright said. “I wish I could have it all as a lump sum.

“I think (reaching the milestone) is a combination of both being able to do well at big rodeos and being able to stay healthy and ride all the time. I’ve been lucky enough to be included in the big rodeos over the years and to win large amounts of money at a lot of them.”

It was Wright’s third win in a big-money rodeo so far in the 2013 season, as he adds the buckle from Clovis to the pair he won in Denver and Fort Worth earlier this year.

Wright has been clutch at the biggest rodeos, as his check on Sunday was the fifth of more than $4,000 he’s earned at a rodeo so far this season.

“This has been a really big spring run for me,” Wright said, “and I think one of the main keys is that I’ve just been drawing so well at these big rodeos. I go at it with the same mindset every year and I still have the same fire now that I had when I was first starting out.”

For Friendly Fire, it’s nothing new to carry someone to a big score at the Clovis Rodeo. Orin Larsen rode Friendly Fire for 87 points at the 2012 edition of the rodeo, and two-time World Champion Kaycee Feild was 86 points on him in Clovis in 2011.

The other champions in this $242,949 rodeo were bareback rider J.R. Vezain (88 points), steer wrestler Justin Blaine Davis (17.8 seconds on four head), team ropers Kaleb Driggers and Travis Graves (26.5 seconds on four head), tie-down roper Hunter Herrin (32.8 seconds on four head), bull rider Kaycee Rose (87 points) and barrel racer Sheena Robbins (51.17 seconds on three head). It was Vezain’s third win in two weeks – all with scores of 88 points – and it allowed him to pass Feild and take over first place in the world standings.

The week’s only other change at the top of the world standings came in the team roping, where checks totaling $4,907 in Clovis allowed Driggers to move into first place ahead of Landon McClaugherty among headers. Driggers’ partner Graves had taken over first place in the heeler standings a week earlier.

Trevor Brazile, who finished second in the tie-down roping to Herrin and earned checks in the team roping with heeler Patrick Smith, won the all-around title with $5,622. Following on the heels of last week’s all-around win at the Buc Days Pro Rodeo in Corpus Christi, Texas, this win has allowed Brazile, in pursuit of his record 11^th all-around gold buckle, to increase his world standings lead to $12,590 over Rhen Richard.

Smith adds luster to sterling season in Lufkin

LUFKIN, Texas – They are both Texans, they both have fathers who became world champions and they both were PRCA Tie-down Roping Rookies of the Year – in back-to-back years. Still, until now, there haven’t been a lot of other similarities in the career arcs of Tuf Cooper and Sterling Smith. Cooper’s career has been sterling and Smith’s a bit tougher.

Cooper has two gold buckles in his five trips to the Wrangler National Finals Rodeo and earlier this year became the youngest cowboy in ProRodeo history to surpass $1 million in career earnings. Smith is still looking for his first Wrangler NFR qualification and his career prize money total is just over $200,000.

Which brings us back to those two little words: Until now. Since hauling more than $13,000 out of the San Antonio Stock Show & Rodeo in late February, Smith has been leading the world standings and is showing no signs of going away.

Exhibit A would be the April 24-27 Angelina County Benefit Rodeo in Lufkin, Texas, where Smith won the first round in 7.8 seconds, tied for the win in the second round with Justin Maass in 7.5 seconds and was a full second quicker than Maass to claim the average title.

The reward for Smith’s 250-mile road trip east from his home in Stephenville, Texas, was a rodeo-best $4,380. His lead over Cooper (son of Roy “Super Looper” Cooper) was just $359 coming into the week and is now up to $4,739.

Despite his early-season success, Smith had made the decision to skip the California spring season, to work at the family’s construction business and ranch while rodeoing close to home. He’s made the gamble work by maximizing his opportunities in Lufkin.

“I never thought it made sense to be going to California for 3½ weeks for two rodeos,” Smith said. “There is too much to do here to be gone that long. The way it turned out, I gained ground and didn’t have to put in the miles.”

With $40,966 in earnings this season, Smith is just $2,674 shy of last year’s career-best total, when he finished a career-best 28^th in the world standings – with five months of the season still to be contested. He will go to the May 15-17 Redding (Calif.) Rodeo and the May 18 Champions Challenge (he qualified by leading the world standings), return home and then start his summer season in earnest at the Reno (Nev.) Rodeo in June.

“I don’t look at the standings very often,” Smith said. “The only ones that count are in October (at the end of the regular season) and at the end of the year … but this has been a good start to the season.”

If Smith should need any more encouragement about his prospects, apart from that expanding bank account, he need look no farther than home. His dad, Brad Smith, didn’t make his first NFR until his ninth season as permit and card holder (he and header George Richards won the team roping gold buckle in their 1978 debut) and Brad went to the NFR five more times. Sterling is in his eighth year since buying his permit in 2006.

The other champions in this $81,382 rodeo at the George H. Henderson Jr. Exposition Center were bareback rider Clint Cannon (88 points), steer wrestler Matt Reeves (9.6 seconds on two head), team ropers Jake Orman and Corey Hendrick (4.7 seconds), saddle bronc rider Jacobs Crawley (84 points), bull rider Casey Huckabee (88 points) and barrel racer Taylor Jacob (14.10 seconds).

Tallman withdraws name from WNFR consideration

COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. – The legendary Bob Tallman, who has been honored eight times as the PRCA Announcer of the Year, has decided to remove himself from consideration as one of the announcers at this year’s Wrangler National Finals Rodeo to focus on other endeavors.

Tallman has worked the Wrangler NFR over parts of five decades, a record total of 25 appearances, including 17 of the last 18, and felt it was the right time to make a change.

“I’ve been working at not being complacent in my life and looking at ways to do things better,” said Tallman, 65. “When it comes to the NFR, the decision was to do less and do a better job of it. And, I’ll have time to enjoy the thing that really makes our sport so special – the people.”

Tallman will be in Las Vegas for the full run of the Wrangler NFR Dec. 5-14, hosting his bowling tournament and being a regular at National Finals Tonight, a show held at the Gold Coast after all 10 performances. He will also take part in autograph sessions for his sponsors – Wrangler, Boyd Gaming, Priefert, Resistol and Boot Barn – along with promoting his growing security company, Pro Vision Digital Surveillance.

He will continue to announce some of the biggest rodeos in the sport, including the Fort Worth Stock Show & Rodeo, the Reno (Nev.) Rodeo, the River City Roundup in Omaha, Neb., and the Red Bluff (Calif.) Round-Up.

“Tallman’s voice is iconic and the symbol of what the WNFR is supposed to sound like,” said Boyd Polhamus, who has announced the rodeo 18 times, all but one alongside Tallman. “This rodeo has always been bigger than just one person, but when a guy like Tallman leaves it after a quarter of a century of adding to it, we will all know the difference.

“I don’t like his decision, but I understand it. It is the most grueling two weeks of any announcer’s life. Between practice, rehearsals, meetings and then, finally, the action – it’s a grind.”

News and notes from the rodeo trail

ProRodeo Hall of Fame bull rider Tuff Hedeman and Dr. Tandy Freeman, the medical director for the Justin Sportsmedicine Team, attended the April 25 dedication of the George W. Bush Presidential Library in Dallas … Ty Murray, who won five championship buckles at California Rodeo Salinas during his brilliant career as a roughstock cowboy, will be the lone contestant inductee in the rodeo’s Hall of Fame class on July18. Murray, a seven-time all-around world champion, will be joined by Marguerite and Marvin Roberts (Notables Category), Bob and Nancy Cook(Contract Personnel), No. 16 Oscar (Livestock) and George Richardson and Dr. E.J. “Doc” Leach (Committee Member). The Cooks operated RSC Stock Contractors and their bull, Oscar, was ridden only a handful of times in a long career, including the memorable winning ride in Salinas by John Davis in 1975. Don Gay rode Oscar for a then-world record score of 97 points in San Francisco in 1977 … The Atlantic City (N.J.) Boardwalk Rodeo is moving from spring to fall this year (Oct. 5-6) and cutting back from three performances to two, but will have Barnes PRCA Rodeo back as the stock contractor and will once again have the biggest purse in the Northeast. Chairperson Janet Markowitz is optimistic that the total prize money will be about the same as last year’s ($97,968), when the rodeo was held March 30 through April 1, and that attendance will benefit from the new format. “If you look at what we sold in the past two years, we sold more tickets than what would fill up two shows,” Markowitz said. “So I think, not that I’m trying to say, ‘Buy your tickets,’ but I think people are going to have to buy their tickets pretty quickly.” … Rodeo Austin achieved a record contribution to their youth giving program this year of $2,251,580, including $484,000 in scholarships to 45 deserving Texas students … Clovis (Calif.) Rodeo PresidentChuck Rigsbee estimates that the just-completed event raised $150,000 for various local charities and that it had an economic impact of more than $7 million on the community. The 99^th annual Clovis Rodeo Parade on April 27 drew more than 40,000 spectators … Ticket sales were up nearly 19 percent over a year ago at the Clark County Fair & Rodeo in Logandale, Nev., with total paid attendance of 11,657 earlier this month … The City of Tehachapi, Calif., has unveiled plans for a $500,000 upgrade for the Tehachapi Event Center and Rodeo Grounds, home of the Tehachapi Mountain PRCA Rodeo each August. Last year the city partnered with the Tehachapi Mountain Rodeo Association for development of the city-owned property and purchased grandstands to double seating capacity … The Bridgeport (Texas) City Council has approved the disbursement of $7,500 in hotel occupancy tax revenue to pay for advertising to benefit the Butterfield Stage Days next month … San Jacinto Methodist Hospital’s Director of Cancer Services Denise Martinez came to a meeting of the Crosby (Texas) Fair & Rodeo Board of Directors on April 22 to express her gratitude and talk about how the rodeo’s contribution of more than $35,000 benefitted cancer treatment at the facility … With the draw of Cervi Championship Rodeo stock and top-flight instructors, the third annual Taos Muncy and Cody Taton Bronc Riding School April 12-14 in Torrington, Wyo., had more than 40 students, some coming from as far away as California … Ron Ackerman, Earl Brawner, Roger Holmer and Don Stuart, the volunteers known fondly by their fellow committee members as “The Four Horsemen,” have been named the grand marshals for the Sisters (Ore.) Rodeo parade … The likeness of former PRCA tie-down roper Duane Carson of Abilene, Kan., is featured on this year’s Wild Bill Hickok Rodeo commemorative buckle, the fourth buckle in the fourth series of this collectible series that dates back to 1989.

QUOTES OF THE WEEK

“I talk to Ote quite a bit. He basically said, ‘Every run counts. Whether you are trying to make the NFR or at the NFR.’ Every time down the arena counts.”

— Steer wrestler Jason Miller, telling the Billings Gazette about the counsel he got from four-time World Champion Ote Berry after Miller finished 16^th last year, missing the last spot in the Wrangler NFR bulldogging field by $55.

“I’ve been wrestling newborn calves into the trailer to get them to dry and warm places, but I don’t think that counts as practice.”

– Canadian steer wrestler William Beierbach telling Pro Rodeo Canada about how difficult regular practice can be when you are working on a ranch and battling a difficult calving season.

Next Up

May 2 Helotes (Texas) Festival Association Rodeo begins

May 3 Kern County Sheriff Reserve Stampede Days Rodeo, Bakersfield, Calif., begins

May 3 Chisolm Trail Stampede, Duncan, Okla., begins

May 3 Guymon (Okla.) Pioneer Days Rodeo begins

May 3 Stonyford (Calif.) Rodeo begins

May 5 Riverdale (Calif.) Rodeo

2013 PRCA World Standings leaders

AA: Trevor Brazile……….….…..$40,600

BB: J.R. Vezain..…………………$45,775

SW: Casey Martin………….……..$44,585

TR-1: Kaleb Driggers……….……..$32,158

TR-2: Travis Graves……………….$35,265

SB: Cody Wright………….……..$45,254

TD: Sterling Smith………………$40,966

BR: Josh Koschel………………..$51,718

SR: Chet Herren…………………$22,789

2013 PRCA WORLD STANDINGS

Through April 29, 2013

All-around

1. Trevor Brazile, Decatur, Texas $40,600

2. Rhen Richard, Roosevelt, Utah 28,011

3. JoJo LeMond, Andrews, Texas 22,357

4. Curtis Cassidy, Donalda, Alberta 16,191

5. Shane Proctor, Grand Coulee, Wash. 14,592

6. Blake Hirdes, Turlock, Calif. 13,927

7. Justin Thigpen, Waycross, Ga. 13,610

8. Ryle Smith, Oakdale, Calif. 13,077

9. Jordan Ketscher, Squaw Valley, Calif. 12,152

10. Josh Peek, Pueblo, Colo. 12,030

11. Payden Emmett, Ponca, Ark. 10,754

12. Paul David Tierney, Oral, S.D. 8,688

13. Clayton Hass, Terrell, Texas 8,603

14. Alan Frierson, O’Brien, Fla. 8,196

15. Jess Tierney, Hermosa, S.D. 7,468

Bareback Riding

1. J.R. Vezain, Cowley, Wyo. $45,775

2. Kaycee Feild, Payson, Ariz. 44,303

3. Bobby Mote, Culver, Ore. 37,365

4. Wes Stevenson, Lubbock, Texas 33,727

5. Austin Foss, Terrebonne, Ore. 24,572

6. Will Lowe, Canyon, Texas 22,007

7. Jared Smith, Cross Plains, Texas 21,401

8. Ryan Gray, Cheney, Wash. 20,024

9. Clint Cannon, Waller, Texas 19,083

10. Winn Ratliff, Leesville, La. 18,703

11. R.C. Landingham, Pendleton, Ore. 18,208

12. Jessy Davis, Power, Mont. 17,770

13. Clint Laye, Cadogan, Alberta 17,650

14. Ty Breuer, Mandan, N.D. 17,591

15. Seth Hardwick, Laramie, Wyo. 14,256

16. Casey Colletti, Pueblo, Colo. 14,178

17. Matthew Smith, Leesville, La. 12,722

18. Evan Jayne, Marseille, France 12,325

19. George Gillespie IV, Placerville, Calif. 11,160

20. Tim O’Connell, Zwingle, Iowa 10,615

Steer Wrestling

1. Casey Martin, Sulphur, La. $44,585

2. Luke Branquinho, Los Alamos, Calif. 31,041

3. Jason Miller, Lance Creek, Wyo. 25,205

4. Straws Milan, Cochrane, Alberta 22,556

5. Wade Sumpter, Fowler, Colo. 22,350

6. Stan Branco, Chowchilla, Calif. 21,328

7. Tyler Pearson, Louisville, Miss., Miss. 21,308

8. Jule Hazen, Ashland, Kan. 21,076

9. Les Shepperson, Midwest, Wyo. 20,077

10. Sean Mulligan, Coleman, Okla. 17,769

11. Clayton Moore, Pouce Coupe, British Columbia 16,099

12. Trevor Knowles, Mount Vernon, Ore. 15,618

13. Cooper Shofner, Huntsville, Texas 14,562

14. Dakota Eldridge, Elko, Nev. 12,749

15. Casey McMillen, Redmond, Ore. 12,341

16. Curtis Cassidy, Donalda, Alberta 11,901

17. Wyatt Smith, Rexburg, Idaho 11,476

18. Dean Gorsuch, Gering, Neb. 11,437

19. Tyler Waguespack, Gonzales, La. 11,316

20. Bray Armes, Gruver, Texas 11,128

Team Roping (header)

1. Kaleb Driggers, Albany, Ga. $32,158

2. Landon McClaugherty, Tilden, Texas 30,128

3. Drew Horner, Plano, Texas 29,407

4. Justin Van Davis, Madisonville, Texas 24,805

5. Erich Rogers, Round Rock, Ariz. 21,948

6. Dustin Bird, Cut Bank, Mont. 21,939

7. Clay Tryan, Billings, Mont. 21,843

8. Brock Hanson, Casa Grande, Ariz. 18,653

9. Calvin Brevik, Durango, Colo. 18,272

10. Nick Sartain, Dover, Okla. 17,241

11. Turtle Powell, Stephenville, Texas 17,206

12. Chace Thompson, Munday, Texas 17,154

13. Luke Brown, Stephenville, Texas 16,971

14. Nick Rawlings, Stephenville, Texas 15,169

15. Ty Blasingame, Ramah, Colo. 14,754

16. Caleb Mitchell, Mason, Texas 14,460

17. Charly Crawford, Prineville, Ore. 13,581

18. Colby Lovell, Madisonville, Texas 12,755

19. Logan Olson, Flandreau, S.D. 12,683

20. Tyler Wade, Terrell, Texas 12,448

Team Roping (heeler)

1. Travis Graves, Jay, Okla. $35,265

2. Tommy Zuniga, Centerville, Texas 30,128

3. Buddy Hawkins II, Columbus, Kan. 29,407

4. Kory Koontz, Sudan, Texas 23,822

5. Cory Petska, Marana, Ariz. 23,347

6. Paul Eaves, Lonedell, Mo. 22,981

7. Clay O’Brien Cooper, Gardnerville, Nev. 18,920

8. Rich Skelton, Llano, Texas 18,809

9. Travis Woodard, Stockton, Calif. 17,906

10. Tyler McKnight, Wells, Texas 17,644

11. Kollin VonAhn, Blanchard, Okla. 16,971

12. Dugan Kelly, Paso Robles, Calif. 15,513

13. Kinney Harrell, Marshall, Texas 14,413

14. Chad Williams, Stephenville, Texas 13,996

15. Jade Corkill, Fallon, Nev. 13,494

16. Ryan Motes, Weatherford, Texas 13,430

17. Martin Lucero, Stephenville, Texas 13,083

18. Jim Ross Cooper, Monument, N.M. 12,933

19. Matt Kasner, Cody, Neb., Neb. 12,683

20. Chase Tryan, Helena, Mont. 12,274

Saddle Bronc Riding

1. Cody Wright, Milford, Utah $45,254

2. Tyler Corrington, Hastings, Minn. 37,561

3. Cort Scheer, Elsmere, Neb. 32,414

4. Jesse Wright, Milford, Utah 30,584

5. Brad Rudolf, Winnemucca, Nev. 22,154

6. Cole Elshere, Faith, S.D. 21,025

7. Taos Muncy, Corona, N.M. 20,483

8. Sterling Crawley, Stephenville, 19,186

9. Troy Crowser, Whitewood, S.D. 16,554

10. Jacobs Crawley, College Station, Texas 15,477

11. Dawson Jandreau, Kennebec, S.D. 15,173

12. Bradley Harter, Weatherford, Texas 14,775

13. Chad Ferley, Oelrichs, S.D. 14,354

14. Isaac Diaz, Desdemona, Texas 13,051

15. Spencer Wright, Milford, Utah 12,930

16. Jesse Kruse, Great Falls, Mont. 12,350

17. Luke Butterfield, Ponoka, Alberta 12,020

18. Will Smith, Marshall, Mo. 11,309

19. Cody Taton, Corona, N.M. 11,101

20. Heith DeMoss, Heflin, La. 10,985

Tie-down Roping

1. Sterling Smith, Stephenville, Texas $40,966

2. Tuf Cooper, Decatur, Texas 36,227

3. Justin Maass, Giddings, Texas 35,820

4. Trevor Brazile, Decatur, Texas 23,176

5. Clint Robinson, Spanish Fork, Utah 22,528

6. E.J. Roberts, Stephenville, Texas 22,079

7. Randall Carlisle, Castor, La. 21,141

8. Timber Moore, Aubrey, Texas 20,292

9. Cade Swor, Winnie, Texas 20,115

10. Ryan Jarrett, Comanche, Okla. 19,125

11. Rhen Richard, Roosevelt, Utah 17,608

12. Tyson Durfey, Colbert, Wash. 17,342

13. Matt Shiozawa, Chubbuck, Idaho 15,780

14. Caleb Smidt, Yorktown, Texas 15,111

15. Hunter Herrin, Apache, Okla. 14,958

16. Houston Hutto, Tomball, Texas 14,892

17. Cody Ohl, Hico, Texas 14,610

18. Stetson Vest, Childress, Texas 14,554

19. Shane Hanchey, Sulphur, La. 14,532

20. Monty Lewis, Hereford, Texas 13,660

Steer Roping

1. Chet Herren, Pawhuska, Okla. $22,789

2. Cody Lee, Gatesville, Texas 20,770

3. Tony Reina, Wharton, Texas 20,474

4. JoJo LeMond, Andrews, Texas 16,968

5. J. Tom Fisher, Andrews, Texas 16,435

6. Vin Fisher Jr., Andrews, Texas 11,537

7. Jarrett Blessing, Paradise, Texas 10,955

8. Mike Chase, McAlester, Okla. 10,951

9. Brent Lewis, Pinon, N.M. 9,903

10. Rocky Patterson, Pratt, Kan. 9,799

11. Bryce Davis, Ovalo, Texas 9,465

12. Kim Ziegelgruber, Edmond, Okla. 9,326

13. Dan Fisher, Andrews, Texas 9,156

14. Brad Prather, Skiatook, Okla. 8,852

15. Trevor Brazile, Decatur, Texas 8,796

16. Scott Snedecor, Fredericksburg, Texas 8,523

17. Joe Wells, Cisco, Texas 7,827

18. Chris Glover, Keenesburg, Colo. 7,333

19. Shane Suggs, Granbury, Texas 6,070

20. Tim Abbott, Midland, Texas 5,436

Bull Riding

1. Josh Koschel, Nunn, Colo. $51,718

2. Tyler Smith, Fruita, Colo. 41,863

3. Kanin Asay, Powell, Wyo. 40,596

4. Corey Navarre, Weatherford, Okla. 35,578

5. Cody Teel, Kountze, Texas 34,670

6. Trevor Kastner, Ardmore, Okla. 34,648

7. Chandler Bownds, Lubbock, Texas 30,607

8. Cole Echols, Elm Grove, La. 30,422

9. Cooper Davis, Jasper, Texas 29,297

10. J.W. Harris, Mullin, Texas 28,826

11. Tag Elliott, Thatcher, Utah 25,386

12. Cheyne Olney, Toppenish, Wash. 25,090

13. Cody Campbell, Summerville, Ore. 24,863

14. Howdy Cloud, Kountze, Texas 22,716

15. Tyler Willis, Wheatland, Wyo. 21,271

16. Bobby Welsh, Gillette, Wyo. 21,126

17. Jeff Askey, Martin, Tenn. 21,091

18. Scottie Knapp, Albuquerque, N.M. 18,340

19. Friday Wright II, Moss Point, Miss. 18,149

20. Elliot Jacoby, Fredricksburg, Texas 17,382

*2013 Barrel Racing (through April 29, 2013)
Barrel racing standings, provided by the Women’s Professional Rodeo Association (WPRA), are unofficial, subject to audit and may change. Unofficial WPRA Standings are published by the PRCA as a courtesy. The PRCA is not responsible for the verification or updating of WPRA standings.

1. Fallon Taylor, Whitesboro, Texas $44,309

2. Mary Walker, Ennis, Texas 35,956

3. Taylor Jacob, Carmine, Texas 33,388

4. Jane Melby, Burneyville, Okla. 31,498

5. Natalie Foutch, Eldora, Iowa 29,622

6. Carlee Pierce, Stephenville, Texas 29,166

7. Shada Brazile, Decatur, Texas 27,513

8. Lisa Lockhart, Oelrichs, S.D. 27,124

9. Sabrina Ketcham, Yeso, N.M. 25,588

10. Sydni Blanchard, Albuquerque, N.M. 24,762

11. Sherry Cervi, Marana, Ariz. 22,908

12. Trula Churchill, Valentine, Neb. 20,725

13. Annesa Self, Sanger, Texas 19,528

14. Brittany Pozzi, Victoria, Texas 19,466

15. Benette Barrington-Little, Ardmore, Okla. 16,635

16. Kendra Dickson, Aubrey, Texas 16,012

17. Lee Ann Rust, Stephenville, Texas 14,914

18. Kenna Squires, Fredonia, Texas 14,780

19. Cindy Smith, Hobbs, N.M. 14,641

20. Kimberly Couch, Rattan, Okla. 13,963

8. 2013 Wrangler Million Dollar Tour Standings

Unofficial through April 29, 2013

Bareback Riding

1. J.R. Vezain, Cowley, Wyo. $33,131

2. Kaycee Feild, Spanish Fork, Utah 23,133

3. Bobby Mote, Culver, Ore. 20,815

4. Austin Foss, Terrebonne, Ore. 14,137

5. Wes Stevenson, Lubbock, Texas 11,600

6. Clint Laye, Cadogan, Alberta 9,006

7. Jessy Davis, Power, Mont. 9,002

8. Seth Hardwick, Laramie, Wyo. 8,438

9. Caine Riddle, Vernon, Texas 7,842

10. Matt Lait, Stavely, Alberta 6,786

11. Ryan Gray, Cheney, Wash. 6,461

12. Morgan Heaton, Paradise, Utah 6,183

13. Jason Havens, Prineville, Ore. 6,050

14. Matt Bright, Azle, Texas 5,982

15. Chase Erickson, Helena, Mont. 5,102

16. Winn Ratliff, Leesville, La. 5,093

17. Casey Colletti, Pueblo, Colo. 5,072

18. Tim O’Connell, Zwingle, Iowa 4,084

19. Caleb Bennett, Morgan, Utah 3,850

20. Will Lowe, Canyon, Texas 3,641

Steer Wrestling

1. Casey Martin, Sulphur, La. $18,124

2. Clayton Moore, Pouce Coupe, British Columbia 15,311

3. Luke Branquinho, Los Alamos, Calif. 14,819

4. Wade Sumpter, Fowler, Colo. 12,503

5. Dakota Eldridge, Elko, Nev. 10,601

6. Sean Mulligan, Coleman, Okla. 10,562

7. Jason Miller, Lance Creek, Wyo. 9,051

8. Tyler Pearson, Louisville, Miss. 7,880

9. Tom Lewis, Lehi, Utah 7,864

10. Justin Blaine Davis, Argyle, Texas 7,817

11. Rhett Kennedy, Chowchilla, Calif. 7,038

12. Wyatt Smith, Rexburg, Idaho 6,580

13. Dean Gorsuch, Gering, Neb. 6,566

14. Stan Branco, Chowchilla, Calif. 6,493

15. Seth Brockman, Wheatland, Wyo. 6,147

16. Chance Gartner, Pasco, Wash. 5,577

17. Trevor Knowles, Mount Vernon, Ore. 5,404

18. Straws Milan, Cochrane, Alberta 5,232

19. Casey McMillen, Redmond, Ore. 5,045

20. Hunter Cure, Holliday, Texas 4,835

Team Roping-Header

1. Drew Horner, Plano, Texas $22,096

2. Kaleb Driggers, Albany, Ga. 19,830

3. Justin Van Davis, Madisonville, Texas 15,857

4. Landon McClaugherty, Tilden, Texas 14,246

5. Erich Rogers, Round Rock, Ariz. 13,443

6. Keven Daniel, Franklin, Tenn. 9,860

7. Calvin Brevik, Durango, Colo. 9,774

8. Quincy Kueckelhan, Bonham, Texas 8,881

9. Aaron Tsinigine, Tuba City, Ariz. 8,791

10. Ty Blasingame, Ramah, Colo. 7,934

11. Nick Rawlings, Stephenville, Texas 7,778

12. Clay Tryan, Billings, Mont. 7,011

13. Colby Lovell, Madisonville, Texas 6,080

14. Travis Tryan, Billings, Mont. 6,025

15. Brock Hanson, Casa Grande, Ariz. 5,764

16. Luke Brown, Stephenville, Texas 5,395

17. Riley Minor, Ellensburg, Wash. 5,293

18. Charly Crawford, Prineville, Ore. 4,464

19. Levi Simpson, Claresholm, Alberta 4,421

20. Speed Williams, Jacksonville, Fla. 4,322

Team Roping-Heeler

1. Buddy Hawkins II, Columbus, Kan. $22,096

2. Clay O’Brien Cooper, Gardnerville, Nev. 15,857

3. Tommy Zuniga, Centerville, Texas 14,246

4. Cory Petska, Marana, Ariz. 13,443

5. Travis Graves, Jay, Okla. 13,048

6. Chase Tryan, Helena, Mont. 9,860

7. Travis Woodard, Stockton, Calif. 9,774

8. Justin Copp, Krum, Texas 8,881

9. Jade Corkill, Fallon, Nev. 8,730

10. Kinney Harrell, Marshall, Texas 8,415

11. Matt Zancanella, Aurora, S.D. 7,934

12. Derrick Peterson, Stillwell, Kan. 7,778

13. Jake Long, Coffeyville, Kan. 6,025

14. Kyle Lockett, Visalia, Calif. 5,883

15. Martin Lucero, Stephenville, Texas 5,834

16. Kory Koontz, Sudan, Texas 5,764

17. Kollin VonAhn, Blanchard, Okla. 5,395

18. Brady Minor, Ellensburg, Wash. 5,293

19. Cole Davison, Madisonville, Texas 5,193

20. Ryan Motes, Weatherford, Texas 4,464

Saddle Bronc Riding

1. Tyler Corrington, Hastings, Minn. $17,112

2. Jesse Wright, Milford, Utah 16,209

3. Cole Elshere, Faith, S.D. 15,704

4. Cody Wright, Milford, Utah 14,961

5. Cort Scheer, Elsmere, Neb. 13,267

6. Brad Rudolf, Winnemucca, Nev. 11,708

7. Sterling Crawley, Stephenville, Texas 11,082

8. Chad Ferley, Oelrichs, S.D. 9,655

9. Brady Nicholes, Hoytsville, Utah 8,461

10. Bradley Harter, Weatherford, Texas 7,471

11. Cody Taton, Corona, N.M. 7,123

12. Taos Muncy, Corona, N.M. 6,817

13. Cody Angland, Wagga Wagga. NSW, Australia 6,756

14. Troy Crowser, Whitewood, S.D. 5,565

15. Jacobs Crawley, College Station, Texas 5,145

16. Chet Johnson, Sheridan, Wyo. 5,003

17. Chuck Schmidt, Keldron, S.D. 4,674

18. Dawson Jandreau, Kennebec, S.D. 4,253

19. Ty Atchison, Jackson, Mo. 3,684

20. Bryce Miller, Nelson, Neb. 3,421

Tie Down Roping

1. E.J. Roberts, Stephenville, Texas $20,048

2. Tuf Cooper, Decatur, Texas 16,736

3. Sterling Smith, Stephenville, Texas 16,254

4. Cody Ohl, Hico, Texas 13,573

5. Hunter Herrin, Apache, Okla. 11,800

6. Timber Moore, Aubrey, Texas 10,136

7. Justin Maass, Giddings, Texas 10,071

8. Trevor Brazile, Decatur, Texas 9,671

9. Monty Lewis, Hereford, Texas 9,228

10. Tyson Durfey, Colbert, Wash. 8,937

11. Ryan Jarrett, Comanche, Okla. 8,302

12. Bryson Sechrist, Apache, Okla. 7,654

13. Reese Riemer, Stinnett, Texas 7,338

14. Adam Gray, Seymour, Texas 6,032

15. Jake Hannum, Plain City, Utah 5,883

16. Rhen Richard, Roosevelt, Utah 5,625

17. Cory Solomon, Prairie View, Texas 5,396

18. Ryle Smith, Oakdale, Calif. 5,306

19. Stetson Vest, Childress, Texas 5,005

20. Houston Hutto, Tomball, Texas 4,803

Bull Riding

1. Josh Koschel, Nunn, Colo. $19,703

2. Tag Elliott, Thatcher, Utah 15,229

3. Trevor Kastner, Ardmore, Okla. 13,128

4. Cody Campbell, Summerville, Ore. 11,238

5. Kaycee Rose, Madera, Calif. 9,589

6. J.W. Harris, Mullin, Texas 9,086

7. Clayton Foltyn, Winnie, Texas 8,390

8. Chandler Bownds, Lubbock, Texas 8,385

9. Cooper Davis, Jasper, Texas 6,499

10. Tyler Smith, Fruita, Colo. 5,551

11. Shawn Hogg, Gardendale, Texas 5,094

12. Travis Atkinson, Lehi, Utah 4,819

13. Cole Echols, Elm Grove, La. 4,814

14. Cody Teel, Kountze, Texas 4,667

15. Ryan Shanklin, Rocksprings, Texas 4,458

Nevada Newman, Melstone, Mont. 4,458

17. Beau Schroeder, China, Texas 4,401

18. Jordan Spears, Redding Calif. 4,389

19. Ty Clearwater, LaCygne, Kan. 3,930

20. Jacob O’Mara, Baton Rouge, La. 3,879

2013 PRCA Xtreme Bulls Standings

Unofficial through April 29, 2013

1. Kanin Asay, Powell, Wyo. $36,842

2. Josh Koschel, Nunn, Colo. 28,071

3. Corey Navarre, Weatherford, Okla. 20,613

4. Howdy Cloud, Kountze, Texas 19,602

5. Tyler Smith, Fruita, Colo. 18,629

6. J.W. Harris, Mullin, Texas 15,662

7. Steve Woolsey, Payson, Utah 14,526

8. Cody Teel, Kountze, Texas 13,970

9. Tyler Willis, Wheatland, Wyo. 13,951

10. Bobby Welsh, Gillette, Wyo. 12,948

11. Dustin Elliott, North Platte, Neb. 12,079

12. Scottie Knapp, Albuquerque, N.M. 11,944

13. Cheyne Olney, Kennewick, Wash. 11,459

14. Blaine Skaggs, Hubbard, Ore. 8,353

15. Cody Campbell, Summerville, Ore. 7,425

16. Ryan Shanklin, Rocksprings, Texas 7,351

17. Cody Samora, Cortez, Colo. 7,318

18. Cole Echols, Elm Grove, La. 7,137

19. Cooper Davis, Jasper, Texas 7,117

20. Ardie Maier, Timber Lake, S.D. 7,077

Championship Bull Riding Expands Sales and Marketing Team StarSports Inc. Will Develop Strategic Partnerships

cindymeyers — Wed, 01 May 2013 22:58:35 +0000

Photo Courtesy CBR

Courtesy CBR

Championship Bull Riding (CBR) has retained Colorado-based StarSports, Inc. to offer expertise in further developing their corporate partner relationships and targeted opportunities within their national television and live event properties. StarSports is a multifaceted sports marketing company with over 30 years experience in the creation, development, and implementation of custom-designed corporate partnerships in the western lifestyle market. With the dramatic increase in social media marketing opportunities, StarSports has expanded its services to include strategic social media activation and execution for select clientele.
“We are proud to join forces with Championship Bull Riding in expanding their family of corporate partners,” said Steve Rempelos, CEO of StarSports, who owns and operates the firm with his partner, Sara Rempelos. “The CBR has a terrific series of live events and fantastic television delivery on the Fox Sports Networks. We are truly excited to assist in the future development of this dynamic sports marketing property.”
Mr. Rempelos was previously Executive Vice President at PRCA Properties where he introduced over a dozen major brands into the various PRCA televised properties. During his tenure, the televised Wrangler ProRodeo Tour, Pace Picante Finale, and the title opportunity for the Wrangler National Finals Rodeo were developed under his marketing guidance. After leaving PRCA Properties, Rempelos joined the newly-formed Grit Rock Rodeo as EVP, where he collaborated with the executive team and renowned television producer Mark Burnett to create the reality show “Toughest Cowboy.” The company also continued production of the televised Wrangler ProRodeo Tour on Fox Sports Net. StarSports, incorporated in 1991, also implements activation for several corporate sponsors in western lifestyle, owns and operates the ProRodeo Vision sponsorship program under a PRCA license agreement, executes sponsorship development and marketing for Grit Rock’s World’s Toughest Rodeo live event series, and has developed strategic social media campaigns targeting western lifestyle enthusiasts.
Mr. Rempelos and his partner / wife Sara reside near Monument, CO and have three sons.

Trey Benton Wins 2013 George Paul Memorial

cindymeyers — Mon, 29 Apr 2013 22:47:47 +0000

Photo courtesy CBR

The 36th Annual George Paul Memorial has come to an end and Trey Benton will be added to the list of other legendary bull riders who have won the prestigious title. Names like as Tuff Hedeman, Lane Frost and Jim Sharp have all entered the history books all in honor of the man who many will say was the best bull rider of all time, George Paul.
Benton certainly is deserving of the honor. Over the last two nights he rode three bulls, each of them for 90 points! (Shine Time- The Dalton Gang, Lumber Jack- Johnson Rawley, Boys Town-Scott Burruss)
Mobbed by fans after the event Benton stated, “This is what every cowboy dreams of winning. It’s an honor and I’m just overwhelmed by all the fans and the love they have for this event. It’s the greatest feeling.”
Benton was given the opportunity by Ram Country Dodge to make a $5,000 donation of his choice and he choose to give the check to fellow bull rider Jarred Long who broke his leg at the event in Las Vegas two weeks ago. Long will be out of competition and is unable to work because of the severity of the injury. The gift of this donation could not have come at a better time or a more appreciative person.
“I just don’t know what to say,” a shocked Long said via phone when he was told about the donation. “I mean I wish I could have been there in person, but this is just so amazing. I thank Trey and Ram County and I really am speechless.”
“I’m just happy I could do it for him,” stated a modest Benton. “We all do this for a living and when we can’t make a living, than we need to step up and help each other out.”
Palace Station Million Dollar Team winner is Johnson/Rawson.
The CBR “Road To Cheyenne Tour” is now on hiatus until the World Championships at Cheyenne Frontier Days July 22nd and 23rd. Watch the premier of the second season of CBR on FSN May 26th at 6PM.

VIEIRA PERFECT TO EARN SECOND WIN OF SEASON

cindymeyers — Sat, 27 Apr 2013 23:14:28 +0000

Photo courtesy PBR

Courtesy PBR

NAMPA, Idaho ― With an 88.5-point effort on Nitro Carrillo Cartel on the final ride of the night, Fabiano Vieira earned his second win of the Built Ford Tough Series season Saturday at the DEWALT Guaranteed Tough Invitational.

Vieira, who also won in St. Louis in February, was one of three riders to go 3-for-3 in Idaho, totaling 262.5 points. Cody Nance finished second with 261.5 points on three bulls, while reigning champion Silvano Alves regained the top spot in the world standings placing third with 259.75 points. Read more on the title race here.

Shane Proctor, who entered the event as the No. 1 rider in the world, was 0-for-2 on the weekend.

Brant Atwood, who covered two of three bulls to finish with 164.5 points, and Eduardo Aparecido, who went 2-for-3 for a combined 156.5 points, rounded out the Top 5 at the Idaho Center.

I’m a Gangster Too was the high-marked bull, posting 46.5 points in taking care of Billy Robinson in the championship round.

The conclusion of the DEWALT Guaranteed Tough Invitational will air on CBS Sports Network Sunday at 8 p.m. ET.

Professional Bull Riders Built Ford Tough Series
DEWALT Guaranteed Tough Invitational
Idaho Center, Nampa, Idaho
Final Results (Round 1-Round 2-Round 3-Event Total Points, Money Earned)
1. Fabiano Vieira, 87.5-86.5-88.5-262.50 points, $40,865.00
2. Cody Nance, 86-87-88.5-261.50 points, $22,105.00
3. Silvano Alves, 86.25-86-87.5-259.75 points, $14,500.00
4. Brant Atwood, 78.25-86.25-0-164.50 points, $7,400.00
5. Eduardo Aparecido, 86-70.5-0-156.50 points, $4,975.00
6. Marco Eguchi, 47.5-81.75-0-129.25 points, $2,900.00
7. Ty Pozzobon, 87.5-0-0-87.50 points, $5,565.00
8/9. Billy Robinson, 0-85.5-0-85.50 points, $2,375.00
8/9. Jason Malone, 0-85.5-0-85.50 points, $2,375.00
10. Kody Lostroh, 85.25-0-0-85.25 points, $1,500.00
11/12. L.J. Jenkins, 0-84.75-0-84.75 points, $810.00
11/12. Luke Snyder, 0-84.75-0-84.75 points, $810.00
13. Chase Outlaw, 84.5-0-0-84.50 points, $850.00
14/16. Aaron Roy, 84.25-0-0-84.25 points, $770.00
14/16. Guilherme Marchi, 0-84.25-0-84.25 points, $400.00
14/16. Nathan Schaper, 0-84.25-0-84.25 points, $400.00
17. Ben Jones, 83.5-0-0-83.50 points, $400.00
18. Mike Lee, 83.25-0-0-83.25 points, $400.00
19. Brendon Clark, 81.25-0-0-81.25 points, $400.00
20. Jared Farley, 80.75-0-0-80.75 points, $400.00
21. Valdiron de Oliveira, 76-0-0-76.00 points, $400.00
Austin Meier, 0-0-0-0.00 points, $400.00
Douglas Duncan, 0-0-0-0.00 points, $400.00
Emilio Resende, 0-0-0-0.00 points, $400.00
J.B. Mauney, 0-0-0-0.00 points, $400.00
Joao Ricardo Vieira, 0-0-0-0.00 points, $3,400.00
Jordan Hupp, 0-0-0-0.00 points, $400.00
Jory Markiss, 0-0-0-0.00 points, $400.00
Kasey Hayes, 0-0-0-0.00 points, $400.00
Lachlan Richardson, 0-0-0-0.00 points, $400.00
Renato Nunes, 0-0-0-0.00 points, $400.00
Shane Proctor, 0-0-0-0.00 points, $400.00
Stormy Wing, 0-0-0-0.00 points, $400.00
Troy Wilkinson, 0-0-0-0.00 points, $400.00
Zack Brown, 0-0-0-0.00 points, $400.00

2013 Professional Bull Riders Built Ford Tough Series Season Standings
(Place, Rider, Events, Wins, Top 5s, Points, Total Winnings)
1. Silvano Alves, 16, 1, 6, 5,872.660, $193,213.68
2. Shane Proctor, 14, 2, 5, 5,199.370, $163,640.80
3. Marco Eguchi, 15, 2, 6, 5,195.500, $160,556.99
4. Joao Ricardo Vieira, 11, 3, 3, 5,024.040, $208,384.51
5. Cody Nance, 16, 1, 4, 4,435.250, $106,127.71
6. Eduardo Aparecido Silva, 12, 0, 6, 4,288.570, $56,437.18
7. J.B. Mauney, 15, 0, 5, 4,171.500, $77,232.13
8. Douglas Duncan, 16, 0, 2, 3,910.120, $61,596.62
9. Fabiano Vieira, 11, 2, 3, 3,883.750, $106,392.00
10. Kody Lostroh, 13, 0, 3, 3,805.500, $83,278.72
11. Aaron Roy, 16, 0, 4, 3,691.750, $74,628.70
12. Jordan Hupp, 15, 0, 0, 3,686.870, $55,367.33
13. Guilherme Marchi, 16, 1, 2, 3,601.000, $77,707.70
14. Luke Snyder, 16, 0, 2, 3,509.250, $74,568.33
15. Mike Lee, 16, 0, 1, 3,460.120, $59,638.72
16. Ty Pozzobon, 15, 0, 3, 2,977.870, $65,243.30
17. Chase Outlaw, 16, 0, 1, 2,967.120, $43,903.16
18. Emilio Rezende, 15, 0, 2, 2,958.220, $45,858.01
19. Brendon Clark, 15, 0, 2, 2,645.000, $33,718.54
20. L.J. Jenkins, 13, 0, 3, 2,629.620, $63,130.80
21. Billy Robinson, 13, 1, 1, 2,540.000, $58,028.33
22. Ben Jones, 15, 0, 1, 2,370.500, $34,697.88
23. Agnaldo Cardozo, 11, 0, 1, 2,362.870, $51,184.40
24. Sean Willingham, 12, 1, 1, 2,296.000, $57,571.91
25. Renato Nunes, 14, 0, 1, 2,142.680, $45,852.85
26. Jory Markiss, 16, 0, 1, 2,123.370, $45,780.27
27. Brant Atwood, 10, 0, 1, 2,087.200, $37,702.14
28. Reese Cates, 10, 0, 1, 1,863.120, $31,706.37
29. Robson Palermo, 6, 1, 1, 1,847.500, $43,835.00
30. Nathan Schapper, 13, 0, 0, 1,803.000, $23,000.94
31. Ryan Dirteater, 11, 0, 0, 1,632.000, $22,164.40
32. Stormy Wing, 9, 0, 1, 1,595.370, $29,946.52
33. Zack Brown, 10, 0, 1, 1,541.000, $28,382.74
34. Lachlan Richardson, 14, 0, 0, 1,388.620, $26,099.28
35. Jason Malone, 5, 0, 0, 1,345.370, $18,662.90
36. Edevaldo Ferreira da Silva, 10, 0, 0, 1,300.630, $515,087.46
37. Austin Meier, 12, 1, 1, 1,204.250, $58,719.65
38. Jared Farley, 8, 0, 0, 1,181.620, $21,213.96
39. Valdiron de Oliveira, 8, 0, 1, 1,174.870, $14,776.01
40. Markus Mariluch, 3, 0, 0, 1,131.120, $19,328.57
41. Troy Wilkinson, 6, 0, 0, 1,072.520, $40,511.66
42. Matt Triplett, 4, 0, 0, 1,002.430, $16,715.35
43. Harve Stewart, 8, 0, 0, 989.370, $11,581.97
44. Stetson Lawrence, 1, 0, 0, 894.500, $21,531.84
45. Kasey Hayes, 2, 0, 0, 887.580, $17,600.81

Del Rio ready for 36th George Paul Memorial Bull Riding

cindymeyers — Sat, 27 Apr 2013 00:41:56 +0000

Photo Courtesy CBR

Press Release Courtesy CBR
Friday and Saturday night bull riding fans in Del Rio will be more than ready for the oldest, continuous bull riding in the world, the 36th George Paul Memorial. Founded in 1978 to honor the 1968 Rodeo Cowboys’ Association world champion bull rider and National Finals Rodeo winner, George Paul, the stand-alone bull riding is considered the Grand Daddy of bull riding events. George Paul is the only professional bull rider to ever ride 79 consecutive bulls, a record which stands today. Event producer, Bobby Paul said, “George believed that he could ride any bull they ran in a chute. He had a religious workout ethic and many cowboys today maintain a training schedule and routine that he was doing 40 years ago before it was popular. He would be proud to be associated with the caliber of riders and bulls of Championship Bull Riding”. George Paul was killed in a plane accident in 1970.
Friday night features 40 bull riders with the high marked ride of Friday night earning the high scorer a chance at the Ram Country Bounty Bull sponsored by Ram Country Dodge of Del Rio. The Ram Bounty Bull Truck is valued at $35,000.
Saturday night 24 elite Championship Bull Riding contestants have a chance to win thousands of dollars in prize money with the new CBR format. After the first 24 rides, the top 12 scores will have a chance at a second bull and, the best four rides of the twelve, will come back for the George Paul championship round.
The Ram Country Dodge dealer’s generosity does not stop Friday night Ram Country has sweetened the pot by offering $5,000 to the winning riders’ charity of their choice. Bobby Paul and Nick Khoury said, “Before the final four rides on Saturday night, each of the 4 qualifiers will be asked by announcer Boyd Polhamus to name the organization they wish to ride for. It can be the families of the first responders who were killed in the town of West, Texas, last week, the Red Cross, Roping Dreams, Cancer Society, Justin Cowboys’ Crisis Fund, Heat Association, or their church. Just so it goes to someone in need or an organization that is dedicated to helping others. It’s up to those who qualify for the championship round and we hope all contestants have someone in mind when they come to Del Rio”.
Performances start at 7:00 PM nightly. Title sponsor for the 36th George Paul Memorial Bull riding is Ram Country Dodge of Del Rio. Presenting sponsor is Bud Light; with premier sponsors include Ramada Inn, Del Rio Feed and Supply, Texas Lottery, Tractor Supply, Chaparral Club and Sam’s Boot Corral. Tickets are on sale at Del Rio Feed and Supply, Sam’s Boot Corral and the George Paul Memorial Bull Riding Office located at the Val Verde County Fairgrounds. Office hours are 9 Am to 4PM. Please phone 775-9595. Visa, Master and Discover Card accepted.

THE BFTS RETURNS TO IDAHO

cindymeyers — Fri, 26 Apr 2013 22:56:03 +0000

Photo courtesy PBR

By Denise Abbott, PBR

NAMPA, Idaho – Idahoans will again be able to enjoy the best bull riders and bucking bulls on the planet when the PBR Built Ford Tough Series returns to the Idaho Center April 26-27, for the DEWALT Guaranteed Tough Invitational. This is the PBR’s 14^th appearance in Nampa.

Tickets for the DEWALT Guaranteed Tough Invitational begin at $10 and are available at the Idaho Center box office, online at www.ICTickets.com or by telephone at (208) 442-3232. The bull riding action begins at 8 p.m. on both Friday and Saturday and will feature more than two hours of the PBR’s brave Top 35 cowboys risking it all through thrilling 8-second rides, jaw-dropping wrecks and adrenaline-soaked performances against their monstrous bovine athletes that can weigh as much as 2,000 pounds.

Idahoans witnessed history in 2004 when Michael Gaffney tied the highest score in the PBR record books with 96.5 points on three-time World Champion Bull Little Yellow Jacket. This year they can expect the same level of talent from the lineup of cowboys presently expected to compete.

Two-time defending PBR World Champion Silvano Alves, who competed in and won his first BFTS event at the Idaho Center in 2010 on his way to a Rookie of the Year title, will be one of five former PBR World Champions on the roster: Alves (2012, 2011), Renato Nunes (2010), Kody Lostroh (2009),Guilherme Marchi (2008) and Mike Lee (2004). Joining these men will be defending PBR Nampa event winner Luke Snyder; fan favorites J.B. Mauney,L.J. Jenkins and current No. 1 bull rider Shane Proctor; young guns Jory Markiss and Chase Outlaw; and the hottest cowboy on tour, rookie Joao Ricardo Vieira, winner of three of the last four BFTS events.

Alves found his form last weekend in Des Moines, Iowa, taking second place in the 15/15 Bucking Battle on Saturday night and finishing seventh overall in the event. That showing moved him into second place in the PBR World Standings, less than 57 points from the overall leader Shane Proctor. In Round 1 on Friday night, Alves faces Corey & Lange /Flying Diamond Rodeo Co.’s Super Fly. Alves has no history with this bull, but Proctor did master him just three weeks ago in Billings, Mont., for 86.25 points. It’s the only time Super Fly has been successfully ridden in BFTS competition.

In Round 2, Alves will meet Show Sports/Jane Clark’s Extreme.

Proctor is up against Keith Gerber’s Nitro Circus in Round 1 on Friday. Nitro Circus has dumped current No. 3 ranked rider Marco Eguchi in his past, along with Nathan Schaper, Harve Stewart and Tony Mendes. Two men, however, have been able to master him in his last two BFTS outs, Marchi in 2012 for 81.75 points and most recently Nunes for 85 points in Tacoma, Wash. Proctor will be looking to continue this trend and cover him to earn as many points as possible to widen the gap between him and Alves. Wentz Bucking Bulls’ Buck Fever will be waiting for Proctor in Round 2.

If Vieira wants to continue his success he’ll need to get through Kool Kitty (TDS Bucking Bulls) on Friday and Kiss Psycho Circus (Jeff Robinson Bucking Bulls) on Saturday. Kool Kitty has had one BFTS out which resulted in 86.50 points to Jordan Hupp in Albuquerque, N.M., earlier this season.

Each of the Top 35 riders in the world will ride one bull each on Friday and Saturday evening. Following Round 2 on Saturday, the riders with the 10 to 15 highest cumulative scores on two bulls will advance to the Built Ford Tough Championship Round where they will compete on one additional bull. The overall event winner will be the rider with the highest combined score from all three rounds.

In its 13-year history, this event has seen some of its winners go on to become PBR World Champions and leave indelible marks on the sport. Past winners include:

2012 Luke Snyder

2010 Silvano Alves

2009 Kody Lostroh

2008 Luke Snyder

2007 Sean Willingham

2006 Wiley Petersen

2005 Tater Porter

2004 Michael Gaffney

2003 Chad Lucas

2002 Reuben Geleynse

2001 Ty Murray

2000 Tater Porter

1999 Curt Lyons

Idaho is the 16^th of 26 stops across 18 states on the 2013 BFTS schedule. The season concludes Oct. 23-27, in Las Vegas with the PBR Built Ford Tough World Finals, where the PBR World Champion will be crowned and awarded a $1 million bonus. The richest bull riding event in the world, the World Finals has a total purse of more than $2 million.

The BFTS is televised every week on CBS, CBS Sports Network and networks around the world. BFTS telecasts are produced for the PBR under a multi-year agreement with David Neal Productions, a Los Angeles-based production company led by 34-time Emmy® Award winner and Peabody Award winner David Neal, who serves as executive producer.