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Last weekend there was an incident at the PBR Built Ford Tough event in New Mexico that I would like to add my 2 cents worth into the discussion. Not only for the PBR but for any rodeo or bull riding event. The issue is - Should a doctor provided by the event or association have the right to tell a contestant that they may not compete for medical reasons?
YES! First, I understand that the contestant is not considered an employee of the event, the association or the producer, but these enities own the event and when the contestant enters he or she agrees to abide by their rules. The association, event committee and the producer are there to provide the audience good family entertainment and to avoid any mishap that might spoil the show. They have strict rules to protect the animals and they have rules to protect the athletes to protect both the sport and their event. Athletes should respect this and listen to the doctors. I sincerely hope that rodeo and bull riding join other sports where what the doctor says goes!
