Horizon Series Qualifier Wins First CBR Tour Event

Fort Worth, Texas (September 17, 2009) ~ Championship Bull Riding is celebrating its first Horizon Series winner on the CBR Tour presented by Mahindra. Riggin Phillips, who qualified to ride at CBR through Horizon Series events at Billy Bob's Texas and Stockyards Championship Rodeo this past summer, won the CBR Window Rock, Arizona competition last week.

Riggin says that he is excited to be a part of such a great organization that gives rookie riders the chance to come up through the ranks to ride on the nationwide CBR Tour. When asked about his recent win, he says, “I didn’t think I could win a CBR on my third event! I’m only 19, and this is a great accomplishment,” said Riggin.

He started riding about five years ago, and he’s been around bull riding all his life. His father rode in NFR, so he feels lucky to have him as a mentor and guide to becoming a great bull rider. He was born in Brownwood, Texas and raised in McKinney, Texas.
When asked about his goals, Riggin says that he has posted reminders all over his house and travel camper. They include qualifying to ride in the NFR, winning rookie of the year and winning the CBR Tour Finale in Kansas City next month.

"To become a great bull rider you need practice. Billy Bob's and Stockyards Championship Rodeo continue to attract good bull riders that need a place to sharpen their skills," states Pam Minick, marketing director of Billy Bob's Texas. "We are proud to be associated with the CBR and its new Horizon Series," adds Pam, "Stop by and check out great bull riding action every weekend in the Fort Worth Stockyards. You just might see your favorite CBR Rider!"

The Horizon Series project is being overseen by CBR Founder and legendary stock contractor, Terry Williams.
“I see this series as a way to find the future stars of bull riding. I also know there are a lot of places who want the CBR to come to their town but the televised tour might be a bit too big for them. This brings the CBR to every city and town, reaching more fans and allowing more folks to see our product,” stated Williams.

The Horizon Series will allow local promoters to conduct a sanctioned CBR event under guidelines provided by CBR administration. The top riders on the Horizon Series tour will be allowed to enter the CBR Tour presented by Mahindra events. So far over 30 events are projected from now until the end of 2010. A Series finale will be hosted by the CBR at the end of 2010.

“Riggin’s win in Window Rock proves that this Series is seeding our CBR Tour,” said CBR President Tuff Hedeman. “We’ll continue to see riders come up through the Horizon Series to ride on the CBR Tour and that’s what makes this truly an exciting time in professional bull riding.”

Find the Horizon Series Tour schedule on www.cbrbull.com . Next event is in Carthage, Texas on October 24th.