Photo Credit: Emily Hobb Photography Brennan Polito, Henderson, Texas
HURON, SD — Sept. 1, 2026 - The Red Wilk Tuff Hedeman Bull Bash returns to the South Dakota State Fair on Wednesday September 2nd for the annual two-night performance beginning at 8 pm both nights at the South Dakota State Fair. The 24-man rider lineup promises pure adrenaline, talented riders and top ranked bucking bulls.
This year’s event features a powerhouse roster of championship contenders, elite veterans, and explosive young guns ready to match up against some of the best bucking bulls in the business. While there are no guarantees in bull riding, as the action kicks off tomorrow night, fans should keep a close eye on a few of the young guns emerging as they challenge the veterans to dominate the leader board and take home the lions share of the purse.
According to five-time World Champion Tuff Hedeman, all eyes will be on a young gun from the piney woods of East Texas.
Eager to establish themselves against seasoned world champions, here are the athletes turning heads this summer. First up and recognized as a rising talent in the sport by industry experts, Brennan Polito, a professional bull rider from Henderson, Texas, is currently competing at a high level in
various rodeo associations. He recently climbed to the #1 spot in the United Professional Rodeo Association (UPRA) bull riding standings. Event wins include the Custer County Classic Bull Riding event and leading the Jim Bowie Days rodeo with multiple 80+ point rides. Polito consistently places at the historic Cowtown Coliseum Stockyards Rodeo in Fort Worth, Texas.
Polito started riding at a very young age, getting early recognition as a "Top Hand" youth rider while developing his skills through junior and bucking bull team events. Despite the high-risk nature of the sport, he has established a reputation for toughness and dedication on the road.
He is recognized as a rising talent in the sport by industry experts.
“Brennan has what it takes to be a champion, riding at an exceptional level of consistency he shows solid fundamentals,” said the five-time World Champion bull rider, Tuff Hedeman.
Adding to the excitement of the roster are several young talented riders performing. Representing the Texas contingency are Avontis Williams from Terrell, hot of a win at the North Texas State Fair, Rafael Santos and Ednelio Rodregues, both from Decatur, Texas are picking up checks at the pay windows, and from Ohio, Isaiah Tullius has added two event win buckles to his record last month.
Tickets are available at www.sdstatefair.com or tuffhedemanbullriding.com. For more information please contact Leigh Ann Schroeder at 940.902.1112 or tuffhedemanpr@gmail.com