Alyssa Vanderhoff (also known as AJ) who died August 27th, 2009, when she lost control of her pick-up truck on a gravel road near her hometown of Marathon, Iowa, was honored in a special tribute at the Extreme Bullriding Tour Finale held New Year's Eve in Madison, NE. As one of the few women bull riders in the Midwest AJ had become a fan favorite on the Extreme Bullriding tour where she competed regularly in the Double S Bull Company Junior Bullriding. AJ's family were the special guest of the night and when the tribute was overthe crowd gave AJ's memory a standing ovation. AJ was a very special person and her presence at events is greatly missed.
The following note was received and as the presenting sponsor of the Extreme Bullriding Tour we wanted to pass it on to all those who have been so supportive of the family in this time of sorrow.
"Todd Crase, Extreme Team and rodeo family,
We would like to take a moment to say a heart felt thank you to all of you for the award on New Year's Eve and and the evening in Madison and Linoln, NE. It was very nice and really meant alot to all of us. You guys are a wonderful family and we are planning on staying in contact with you, and will be attending as many of the events as we can. You all held a special spot in AJ's heart as well as ours. She really enjoyed riding and getting to know all of you.
Thanks for everything,
AJ Vanderhoff Family"
