JARBOE DEBUTS IN EL PASO FOR THE WIN

17th Annual Casa Ford Tuff Hedeman El Paso Bull Riding

5-time NFR qualifier Roscoe Jarboe wins goes El Paso - Round one on 208 Sledgehammer (JC Knapp) for 89 points.

EL PASO - February 6, 2022 - Five-time National Finals Rodeo Qualifier (NFR) Roscoe Jarboe (Plymouth, ID) made two of the 13 qualified rides at the EL Paso County Coliseum Saturday night to edge out Texas cowboy Braden Richardson for the event title win at the 17th Annual Casa Ford El Paso Tuff Hedeman Bull Riding event.

With zero qualified rides in the Shoot Out round, Jarboe was declared the event winner with the highest average score of 178.25 points on three. $18,500 in prize money was left on the dirt and will be added to the next prize package which is now $48,500 at the South Point Hotel and Casino Tuff Hedeman Bull Riding on March 5, 2022, in Las Vegas.

Jarboe made his El Paso debut claiming the prize package in front of the sold-out crowd at the annual Casa Ford Tuff Hedeman Bull Riding held for 17 consecutive years.25-year-old Jarboe has earned over $1,0000 riding bulls professionally with $750,000 of that total coming from the Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association (PRCA).

“I had always heard what a great event this was and glad to get in when I bucked off at my last event and my schedule opened up to get here. The crowd is amazing and I want to thank the fans, sponsors, and Tuff for putting this all on, a great riding contest,” said Jarboe.

“We for sure have great guys and great bulls here tonight, but if you look up bull riding fans in the dictionary, there is a picture of ya’ll right here, no better fans than in El Paso,” said El Paso native Tuff Hedeman as he opened the show.

ROUND ONE

High School student and Champion John Crimber of Decatur, Texas led the nine qualified rides of the first round with 89.5 points, edging out Travis Wimberly (89.25) by a quarter of a point. Jarboe struck early as he opened the show with 89 points followed by additional section one scores from Marco Juarez (87), and Cimarron Rucker (86). Crimber, the former Tuff Hedeman Ft. Worth Steer Riding Champion now following in his Dad’s, Paulo Crimber’s footsteps, took the lead with the 89.5 on F27 Slamma Jamma (Rawson) in section two. Additional qualified rides from round one included D.J. LaFleur (79.5) , Brody Yeary (88), Travis Wimberly (89.25) and Tyce Willis  (89).

John Crimber rides two in his debut on the Tuff Hedeman Bull Riding Tour, Crimber is the son of 10X PBR qualifier and PRCA NFR Bull Riding Champion Paulo Crimber

SEMIFINAL ROUND

Three bull riders were drawn back to the 12-man Semifinal round. Garret Jones, Kase Hill and Tevin Watson joined the 9 riders who made qualified rides in Round One. Watson replaced JC Mortensen who declined to advance due to injury.

 DJ LaFleur took the early lead as the first bull rider to ride two with an 84.5 on 3713 Cheeco (Cunningham) earning 164 on 2. That lead was lost in the next out when the only 90-point ride of the night was secured by NFR qualifier Braden Richardson on 702 Speck (JQH) taking the lead with 176 points. Answering Richardson, Brody Yeary tied up Richardson’s lead with 88 on 6820 Devil Dog (Hurst). Drawing the bull that Parker McGown took to the pay window to win the Hobbs Tuff Hedeman event just two weeks ago, Roscoe Jarboe took the lead with an 89 on 505 Outer Limits (Burruss).

NFR qualifer Braden Richardson, Jasper, TX wins the Semi-Final round aboard JQH’s Spec for 90 points, the only 90 point ride of the event.

SHOOT OUT

The four-man Shoot Out was now set with the four pros who all rode their bulls in both preliminary rounds, but scores are dropped and the Shoot Out round is a winner take all round for the event championship title and the bulk of the prize money.

After careful consultation with Hedeman, the riders selected their bulls in order of top average points earned thus far.  DJ LaFleur was first up and down on Jeff Harris 181 Baby Boy. Yeary suspected 404B American Psycho was a misfit but gave it a large effort before losing to Burruss’s rank bull.  Richardson selected 472 Underdog, a bull he had been on before,  but the bull went two for two against and won the battle. Jarboe who had pick of the pool selected 419 Pearl Snap (Burruss), but came down shy of the buz$18,500zer.

Bullfighters Beau Scheuth (front) and Bryce Redo (top) worked overtime to get Travis Wimberly to safety after a rough dismount.

BULLTEAM

Burruss Bucking Bulls led the bull team results in El Paso by 1.09 points over Universal Pro Rodeo & McMahon bull team. With 2 qualified rides, 505 Outer Limits was the anchor of the team with Jarboe’s 89.25 points in the Semifinal round. Bull Score honors from this team went to 546 Evil Intentions with an 88.75 bull score. Burruss had this to say about his team.

“51 Red Armour, who we brought here to this arena and event for the first time three years ago, was the best bucker tonight, our NFR bull 546 went right when he usually goes left so that was interesting, 505 that Roscoe got on was good too. I was happy to get the win, everyone brings good bulls, and the competition is always tough,” said Burruss.   

EL PASO RIDER RESULTS

1, Roscoe Jarboe, New Plymouth, ID, 178.25 points on three, $2,200. 2, Braden Richardson, Jasper, TX, 176 on 3, $2200. 3, Brody Yeary, Morgan Mill, TX, 176 pts on 3, $2200. 4, DJ LaFleur, Devers, TX, $2200.

EL PASO BULL TEAM RESULTS

1, Burruss Bucking Bulls, 283.25 points, earnings of $24,000. 2, Universal Pro Rodeo & Chance McMahon, 282.19 pts, $18,000. 3, JQH Bucking Bulls, 278.23, $12,000. 4, Harris Bucking Bulls, 276.84, $6,000.

  

Hedeman taps top-ranked riders to compete this weekend in El Paso

National Finals Rodeo qualifier and Round 9 winner, Braden Richardson of Jasper, Texas will ride in El Paso

Each year in February Tuff Hedeman, assembles a roster of who's who in the bull riding world and heads to El Paso to produce one of the most prestigious and legendary titles a cowboy can earn, the Casa Ford Tuff Hedeman Bull Riding. Top-ranked bull riders and bulls will compete for the lion's share of $30,000 in prize money for one night on four-time World Champion and Pro Rodeo Hall of Famer Hedeman's top-notch roster.

2021 El Paso Champion Demetrius “Ounzie” Mitchell enjoying a little appreciation from the fans. Mitchell went 3 for 3 to win the championship.

The exciting two-hour Tuff Hedeman bull riding is returning to the El Paso County Coliseum on February 5th. The competition will start at 8 p.m. From having world-class bulls matched up with superstar riders, to upbeat music and enthusiastic fans and a few show surprises here and there, there is something for everyone.

"The county coliseum is coming home for me and I am so overwhelmed each year with the warm welcome and friendly faces I get to see around town and at the event. It's amazing the partnerships we have here that allow us to entertain the fans and show them a good time year in and out in such a tough world right now," said Hedeman who grew up in El Paso.

Mitchell winning his first Tuff Hedeman title in 2021 in El Paso

Hedeman announced several pedigreed bull riders have accepted his invitation to compete and are headed to the 17th Annual Casa Ford Tuff Hedeman Bull Riding.

"This year's crop of rider talent is solid and with the El Paso fan's over-the-top enthusiasm that is always in the Coliseum - they will no doubt be hanging on until the buzzer to get a shot at the title and prize money and appreciation from the fans," said Hedeman.

For over three decades Hedeman's legendary mentoring and leadership has bull riders following him onto the dirt as he provides the opportunity to win money while competing on great livestock.

NFR Rider and headliner for El Paso, Braden Richardson

Hedeman announced the addition of National Finals Rodeo qualifiers and PBR Riders, Braden Richardson, and Riker Carter to the roster of 24 bull riders that includes returning El Paso Champion in 2021, Demetrius "Ouncie" Mitchell. In addition, PBR and PRCA competitor Marco Juarez, New Mexico, will be competing as well as making appearances on Thursday at Casa Ford.

Bull Rider Riker Carter heads to El Paso from Stone, Idaho

Hedeman's three-round sudden death style bull riding is on the radar of most bull riders and the high energy and exciting competition will not disappoint the fans. Known as the bull riding blow-out of El Paso, it has not disappointed the faithful fans of El Paso for 17 consecutive years.

Returning champion Demetrius "Ounzie" Mitchell debuted and won his first Tuff Hedeman Bull Riding with a perfect 3 for 3 night in 2021. Competing against Mitchell for the 2022 title will be 26-year-old Braden Richardson, Jasper, Texas, the round 9 winner of the 2021 NFR in Las Vegas. Richard is a returning Tuff Hedeman Bull Riding Champion having won multiple THT tour events.

Hedeman also announced Riker Carter, Stone Idaho, who won the Rapid City PRCA Extreme Bulls last week. The 29-year-old bull rider has been riding professionally since 2010. Carter won the National High School Finals Rodeo bull riding in 2008 and qualified for the National College Finals Rodeo in 2013.

Tuff Hedeman Bull Riding events have something for everyone at any age!

Tuff and the cowboys will be around town signing autographs and meeting the public.

CASA FORD - Weds, Feb 2nd @ 3p-5p Meet the Cowboys.

CASA FORD - Thurs, Feb 3rd @ 3p-5p Meet Tuff & the Cowboys.

CASA FORD - Fri, Feb 4 @ 3p-5p Meet the Cowboys.

SUNLAND PARK RACETRACK AND CASINO - Fri, Feb 4@1;30 pm - 2:30 pm - Meet Tuff and gen am autograph!

CAVENDER'S at Fountains of Farah - Fri Feb 4:3-5p Meet Tuff to get an autograph.

Day of Event: Sat, Feb 5th

5:30 -7:30 pm The Tailgate Down Free Pre-Party - The Brian Mars Band Live outside in the Coliseum parking lot.

8 pm - Tuff Hedeman Bull Riding

After the Bull Riding party at Whiskey Dicks Bar & Night Club on George Dieter.

Tickets on Sale now at the El Paso County Coliseum, Cavenders, or Ticketmaster.com. Prices start at $25 to $90 and VIP seating is available! Fans are encouraged to get their tickets now as the show is expected to be a sell-out. Tickets are available at www.tuffhedemanbullriding.com and ticketmaster.com. Follow Tuff Hedeman on Facebook and Instagram @OfficialTuffHedeman.

WEBSITES:

www.tuffhedemanbullriding.com, www.ticketmaster.com

Event Locations: El Paso County Coliseum 4100 E Paisano, El Paso, TX 79905

Whiskey Dicks, 1580 George Dieter Dr # 204, El Paso, TX 79936

McCown Goes 3-for-3 to win Hobbs Tuff Hedeman Bull Riding

Parker McCown, Montgomery, Texas, riding Outer Limits for 90.75 score and the win at the season opener of the Tuff Hedeman Bull Riding Tour. in Hobbs, NM.

Capturing his first Tuff Hedeman Bull Riding title, National Finals Rodeo qualifier, Parker McCown was the only bull rider to go 3 for 3 in the Lea County Events Center on a chilly Saturday night in Hobbs, New Mexico.

The Montgomery, Texas cowboy had this to say about his perfect night in Hobbs.

"This was my first Tuff Hedeman win. I've been in several final fours but have never had the opportunity to win one," said Texas cowboy.

Tuff Hedeman welcomes NFR qualifier Parker McCown to the season opener of the Tuff Hedeman Bull Riding tour in Hobbs, NM

The competition was a nail-biter with 18 qualified rides and several within striking distance of the 8-second whistle as the leader board changed with each round.

"The 3 rounds are tough but you feel victorious at the end, three bulls back to back is tiring and takes a toll on your mental and physical side, you have to stay strong and keep the faith and I was blessed to get the win," added a humble McCown.

Wearing Rock N Roll Denim Jeans, McCown picked up the additional $2,000 bonus from Panhandle while outlasting 23 of his peers through the grueling three rounds of competition. Bringing the fans to their feet in the final Shoot Out round, McCown earned the championship title a 90.75 ride score aboard _to win to the $18, 250 price check that accompanied the title of the Hobbs Tuff Hedeman Bull Riding.

After being sidelined for six months with a right shoulder injury at his first National Finals Rodeo in 2020, bull rider Parker McCown is headed in the right direction since his return to bull riding competition in the summer of 2021.

With 11 qualified rides in round one and 4 more riding for 7 seconds plus, Maverick Potter took the lead with an 89.75 aboard 638 Chanler's Mule from Universal Pro Rodeo. McCown started his night with an 88.5 on #51 Red Armor (Burruss Bucking Bulls). McCown shared the 88.5 score with NFR qualifier Tim Bingham, Kase Hitt, and Ouncie Michell. Tyler Kipps, Trey Kimzey, Riggin Shippy, Cole Fischer, John Crimber, and Jeff Lambert rounded out the qualified rides in round one to advance to the second round of the tournament-style format.

Maverick Potter, round 1 winner aboard Chanler’s Mule

The Semifinal round pitted the top 11 qualified rides from round one and three additional riders, Tyce Willis, Colton Byrum, and Pablo Belmares advanced on time ridden for another bull and a shot to make it to the final four round and stay in the hunt for a share of the $30,000..

The bull riders were on their game riding six in the semifinal round with McCown leading the pack with 89 points aboard #402 East Side from T & G Bucking Bulls. Ouncie Michel was second with an 87.75 followed by Maverick Potter's 87.5. Cole Fischer, John Crimber, and Tim Bingham rounded out the scores with 85.25, and a pair of 84.5's respectively.

With six qualified rides on two bulls, the top 4 average scores would advance to the Shoot Out round. McCown edged out Potter by half a point for the number one pick of bulls with 177.5 on two. He selected #505 Outer Limits.

"I'd seen that bull several times at rodeos and I knew he would probably fit me. He was always pretty showy and up and under himself and that's what I like," said McCown about his selection.

Maverick Potter, ,Ounzie Mitchell, and Tim Bingham rounded out the final four but each bucked off before the whistle leaving McCown left to ride. In Tuff Hedeman Bull Riding format, a qualified ride score was all that was needed to win the event. With the bull bucking into his hand, Parker's prediction of the bull fitting him was obvious from the gate pull as he did more than just ride, thrilled the crowd with his 90.5 ride to win his first Tuff Hedeman Bull Riding.

 

HOBBS RESULTS

1, Parker McCowan, Montgomery, TX, 268.25 on 3 head, $18,250. 2, Maverick Potter, Waxahachie, TX, 177.25 on 3, $2,250. 3, Ounzie Mitchell, Houston, TX, 176.25 on 2, $2250. 4, Tim Bingham, Honeygrove, UT, 173 on 3, $2250.

Universal Pro Rodeo and Chance Mahon wins Hobbs Tuff Hedeman Bull Riding Team with 282.28 points and a check for $24,500! Congrats.

BULL TEAM RESULTS

1, Universal Pro Rodeo and Chance McMahon, 282.28, $24,000. 2, Danny Mason Bucking Bulls, 282.25, $17,500. 3, Scott Burrus, 282.03, $13,300. 4, Mike Rawson, 276.03, $9800.

Universal Pro Rodeo’s winning bull team member, Cole Fischer on Chanler’s Dream

 

 

 

 

Tuff Hedeman Bull Riding Returns to El Paso for 17th Consecutive Year

EL PASO, Texas – January 4th, 2022 – World champion bull rider and pioneer in the sport of professional bull riding, Tuff Hedeman, is returning to  El Paso on Saturday, February 5th with his signature style two hour adrenaline rush, action-packed entertainment. The annual Casa Ford Tuff Hedeman Bull Riding returns for the 17th consecutive year to the El Paso County Coliseum where Hedeman’s national bull riding tour is making preparations at the El Paso County Coliseum for what Hedeman is calling the “Cowboy Up” Tour.

Tickets to El Paso’s event go on sale today on ticketmaster.com and at the Coliseum Box Office.  The show includes the traditional Western Tech Tailgate Down Party on event night at the Coliseum and the after party at Whiskey Dicks.  Top ranked bull riders and bulls will compete for one night only as four time World Champion and Pro Rodeo Hall of Famer Tuff Hedeman lines up an impressive roster of World Champions and Wrangler National Finals Rodeo athletes to compete for the coveted El Paso championship title.

Bull riding fans will have the rare opportunity to see these extraordinary cowboy athletes including Mexican bull riding champions around town and then competing in the Saturday night performance. These same athletes battle the bulls professionally setting records on all the pro tours.  

 The annual bull riding event returns to El Paso with celebrated bulls matched up with super star riders on Saturday, February 5th where the Tailgate Down Party kicks off at 5 pm followed by the doors opening at 6:30 p.m. and the competition will get underway at 8 p.m. 

Demetrius “Ounzie” Mitchell. 2021 Tuff Hedeman Bull Riding Casa Ford Champion.

The Tuff Hedeman Bull Riding is the highlight event that pits man verses bull in a two-hour long bull riding competition that promises to captivated and entertain fans. Throughout the event, 24 bull riders and 40 bulls will compete in a three-round tournament-style sudden death format. The event concludes in a final four man round where you must ride to win the lion’s share of the prize money. El Paso will be the first stop on the 2022 Tuff Hedeman Bull Riding Tour.  Tickets are available at www.tuffhedemanbullriding.com. Follow Tuff Hedeman on Facebook and Instagram @OfficialTuffHedeman. Schedule and appearances will be released at a later date.

There are no guarantees in bull riding; the only way for cowboys to earn a paycheck is to ride better than the rest of the 24-man field.  The field of competition which starts with 24 riders, then 12 and finally 4 in the Shoot Out where they will battle for the lion’s share of $30,000 in prize money. The night’s excitement will culminate as the final four bull riders will get a third opportunity to ride for cash. 

2020 Tuff Hedeman Bull Riding Casa Ford Champion and NFR Qualifier Colten Fritzlan

The Casa Ford Tuff Hedeman Bull Riding is known for its action-packed performances that keep fans on the edge of their seats and every time Tuff Hedeman returns to his hometown of El Paso it is always a great show! From having world class bulls matched up with super star riders, to upbeat music and enthusiastic fans and a few show surprises here and there, there is something for everyone. 

Tickets on sale now at the El Paso County Coliseum,  or Ticketmaster.com. Prices start at $25 to $90. Fans are encouraged to get their tickets now as the show is expected to be a sell-out.

WEBSITES:  www.tuffhedemanbullriding.com, www.ticketmaster.com

Event Locations: El Paso County Coliseum 4100 E Paisano, El Paso, TX 79905 (TAILGATE DOWN PARTY & BULL RIDING SATURDAY FEBRUARY 5th)

Whiskey Dicks, 1580 George Dieter Dr # 204, El Paso, TX 79936 (AFTER PARTY SATURDAY FEBRUARY 5th)



For interviews, press credentials and more information please contact: 

Rave Marketing & Events

Gina Roe-Davis  915-544-9000

Gina@ravemarketing.com

tuffhedemanpr@gmail.com – Leigh Ann Schroeder - 940-902-1112




About Tuff Hedeman 

Richard Neale "Tuff" Hedeman (born March 2, 1963, in El Paso, Texas) is an American retired three-time Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association (PRCA) World Bull Riding Champion as well as the 1995 Professional Bull Riders (PBR) World Champion Bull Rider, and a ProRodeo Hall of Fame and Bull Riding Hall of Fame inductee. Previously, Hedeman was the president of the PBR. He is one of the co-founders of the PBR. In 1999, the PBR honored him with the PBR Legends and Heroes Celebration: Ring of Honor. Followed by an affiliation with Championship Bull Riding (CBR) for 12 years. He is known for having been one of rodeo icon Lane Frost's closest friends as depicted in the film 8 Seconds and historic clashes with the infamous bucking bull Bodacious. He recently remarried and has four sons, Lane, Trevor, Ryker and Ripp. 


Hedeman Taps 646 RIP as Bounty Bull in Huron

Red Wilk Construction Bull Bash at the South Dakota State Fair

 

Since February 11, a bull branded 646 Rip has not been conquered for 8 seconds, in fact not one cowboy has made it past 4 seconds while still on his back.  If you are the lucky rider Wednesday night with the highest score you will be pitted against RIP to attempt to collect the $10,000 bonus check from Four-time World Champion bull rider, Tuff Hedeman.

Hedeman announced today the selection of the unridden RIP as the $10,000 Bounty or bonus bull for the first night’s performance at the opening grandstand event, the Red Wilk Construction Bull Bash.

Rip, a resident of Arkansas is owned and trained by Scott Burruss Bucking Bulls and is already lying in wait at the Fairgrounds in Huron resting for his South Dakota debut on Wednesday night. 

Described by Tuff Hedeman as “A big strong yellow brindle with horns that as of today, has never been ridden.”

This young bull from Scott Burruss’s collection denied many cowboys of their dreams in 2021 including Jordan Spears at   Cheyenne Frontier Days, JC  Mortensen at Lovington, New Mexico, and Jordan Spears in  Gladewater.  Not smooth but looks rideable.

burrussboys.jpg

He has bucked off 12 straight cowboys in PRCA competition and a host of others in non-sanctioned events.

Hedeman and his crew are busy making final arrangements for the annual Red Wilk Construction Bull Bash, including waiting on the arrival of the highly anticipated "bounty bull."

Tuff Hedeman brings to town 40 of the best bull riders and bulls in the country for the eighteenth year.

Among them, Burruss Bucking Bulls, a renowned stock contractor from Bradford, Arkansas, and the unridden bucking bull branded 646.

The Red Wilk Construction Tuff Hedeman Bull Bash presented by the South Dakota State Fair opens its doors both nights at 6 pm with the action getting underway at 8.

The Red Wilk Construction Bull Bash will be held at the South Dakota State Fairgrounds, 890 3rd St SW, Huron, SD 57530.  Tickets begin at $12 for children and  $20 for adults and are available by calling 866-605-FAIR, or online at www.sdstatefair.com. For more information and media credentials or interviews, please contact Leigh Ann Schroeder, 940.902.1112 via text or call.

 

 

 

RIPthebull.jpeg

Red Wilk Construction Tuff Hedeman Bull Bash Returns to the Grandstands at the South Dakota State Fair

Keyshawn Whitehorse wins the 2020 Red Wilk Tuff Hedeman Bull Bash

Keyshawn Whitehorse wins the 2020 Red Wilk Tuff Hedeman Bull Bash

HURON, South Dakota - Partnering with local businessman and Vietnam veteran Red Wilk, Tuff Hedeman is making final preparations for the annual Tuff Hedeman Bull Riding at the South Dakota State Fair on September 1-2 in Huron. For two nights bull riding fans and ticketholders can enjoy a family-friendly, action-packed adrenaline rush entertainment wrapped around an emotional patriotic American Hero Award Ceremony held during intermission and presented by Red Wilk Construction.

"The sacrifice these men make for our country is how we can do what we do today, right here in this very arena, and it is our honor to stand down and be part of this great rite of passage and remember why we can celebrate the freedoms we enjoy," said Hedeman who honors military veterans at all his bull ridings.

Laramie Craigen goes 4 for 4 in the 2020 REd Wilk Construction Bull Bash

Laramie Craigen goes 4 for 4 in the 2020 REd Wilk Construction Bull Bash

Celebrating 50 years of veterans who served our country during the Vietnam War era, the extraordinary ceremony now in its 18th year will honor veterans of World War II, Korea, Desert Storm, Afghanistan, Iraq, Syria, and the ongoing fight against terrorists worldwide. Wilk, a Vietnam Veteran himself, has honored 400 plus South Dakota Veterans since beginning the annual ceremony. 

“It is real simple, we remember death by celebrating lives,” said Red Wilk.

Red Wilk has honored over 400 Veterans since beginning the American Hero Award Ceremony.

Red Wilk has honored over 400 Veterans since beginning the American Hero Award Ceremony.

Hedeman, known for lining up elite riders to face off with world-class bucking bulls brings his unique bull riding format to the fair's Grandstands for nearly two decades. The annual professional, fast-paced, bull riding competition features over 30 pro bull riders and two bullfighters matched to animals of superior strength and spirit rivaling that of the cowboys.

THT Huron '18 THUR 789 Veterans.jpg

In the arena, the only way to get on the roster at Huron's elite event is by invitation from four-time World Champion and Pro Rodeo Hall of Famer Tuff Hedeman who produces his "invitation only" designed event format which yields the best roster of elite bull riders facing off with world-class bucking bulls in two days of intense, highenergy battle. 

Produced by Tuff Hedeman, the Red Wilk Construction Bull Bash has been thrilling audiences in Huron for many years including wins by bull riding greats 4-time PRCA World Champion Sage Kimzey (2015), PBR World Champion Mike Lee, PBR’s Keyshawn Whitehorse, NFR Qualifiers Koby Radley and Boudreaux Campbell, NFR qualifiers Aaron Pass and South Dakota’s Ardie and Corey Maier to name a few.

The Tuff Hedeman Tour returned to live audiences in July with events in El Paso, Texas, and Las Vegas, Nevada where the tour was the first live ticketed event at the South Point Hotel Casino Arena since the pandemic shut down in April of 2020. The tour rolls into Huron for stop number with World Champions, National Finals Rodeo qualifiers, and the young guns who challenge the seasoned riders always in Huron.  With its thrilling 8-second attempts and two hours of impressive athletics, Tuff Hedeman’s Bull Riding tour is trending among athletes and fans.

The bull riding action begins Wednesday night as the Tuff Hedeman Bounty Bull night resumes where each contestant competes in the long round followed by the winner attempt at a “Bounty Bull” worth $10,000 if he makes a qualified scored ride. The action continues on Thursday night, September 2 at 8 pm in Hedeman’s three-round tournament-style event, the riders' score advances them thru three rounds hopefully earning a coveted slot in the final four-man "Shoot Out round" where the bulk of the price money, championship title, and custom prizes are earned.

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Tickets for the two-day event are on sale now and start at $12 for youth and $20 for adults. Tickets are sold in either grandstand reserved seating area or the standing room area located in the party pit.  They can be purchased at the SD State Fair Office, or by calling (605) 353-7340, or online at tickets or https://www.etix.com/ticket/o/4564/SDStateFair?cobrand=southdakota.

The 2021 South Dakota State Fair runs Thursday, September 2, through Monday, September 6. For more information on State Fair events, contact the Fair Office at 800-529-0900, visit www.sdstatefair.com or find them on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.

About Tuff Hedeman

Hedeman formed the Tuff Hedeman Bull Riding Tour after serving for a combined 23 years as the former head of the two nationally organized professional bull riding organizations (PBR and CBR) since his retirement as a rider from the sport in 1999. Referred to as the “pioneer of the sport of bull riding” after producing the first stand-alone bull riding event in Fort Worth, Texas in 1993, Hedeman is a four-time World Champion Bull Rider, inducted into the Pro Rodeo Hall of Fame and the most recognizable cowboy in the world. He and his wife Liz reside reside on his ranch near Morgan Mill, Texas. Hedeman has four sons, Lane, Trevor, Ryker, and Rip.

 

 

 

 

Fans and Cravens win big at the Las Vegas Tuff Hedeman Bull Riding

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South Point Hotel and Casino Tuff Hedeman Bull Riding presented by Discount Tire

Returning to Las Vegas as the first ticketed event at the South Point Hotel and Casino, Tuff Hedeman brought his bull riding tour to the sold-out Arena crowd for what became a dream come true night show for the young cowboy from Porum, Oklahoma, who accepted his first check from Hedeman. Cravens earned the $15,125 jumbo check, trophy buckle and Panhandle prize package following his 91-point performance in the Shoot Out Round.

"This was the coolest bull riding I have ever been to, and I sure wish there was more of them," said Cravens.

“This was the coolest bull riding I have ever been to,” said Cravens following his first Tuff Hedeman Bull Riding tour event in Las Vegas.

“This was the coolest bull riding I have ever been to,” said Cravens following his first Tuff Hedeman Bull Riding tour event in Las Vegas.

“It is such an amazing honor to be back at the South Point, we were the last ticketed event here in March of 2020 and they had us back as the first after a tough year for all of us – I am grateful for that partnership and it made a lot of fans happy on Saturday night in Vegas,” said Hedeman.  

Most 21-year-olds come to Las Vegas for the first time, but Cannon Cravens, who celebrated his milestone birthday in May, is more than familiar with the luck and lure of gambling on bull riding in Sin City.

Fans win big as the Tuff Hedeman Bull Riding Tour returns to Las Vegas

Fans win big as the Tuff Hedeman Bull Riding Tour returns to Las Vegas

Born to a family of cowboys, Craven’s father, Michael, was an amateur bull rider and told Cannon's grandpa, Charlie, when Cannon was born that he was holding a future bull rider. Craven got on his first sheep three years later, followed by d his first steer at 9. He won the Oklahoma High School Finals as a freshman and then headed out to begin his pro bull riding career path by accepting an opportunity at 14 from former pro bull rider J.J. Jenkins.

It was that decision that changed his life. Cravens was getting on top-caliber bulls when he was just 14 in bull competition-style events, and the success earned him his own home at 16 years of age.

“LJ lives like five minutes away from me and pretty much taught me everything I know,” Cravens said. “I didn’t know how to ride bulls, honestly, and he just taught me the right way to ride them.”

ROUND ONE

Performing for not only a packed house, but the U.S. Airforce Thunderbirds, Florida cowboy Cullen Telfer was the first qualified ride of the night with 84.5 points on Tom Baker’s Rag Doll in the first section. Cravens would bring the crowd to their feet with the round tying 89.5 points to take the lead on x8 Beer Goggles.

“My first bull was one of JC Knapps and was, sure enough, a bucker, and I had seen him several times and felt like I knew what he was going to do if I stayed on him, I knew I would be close to 90, I had(never been on him but excited at the chance and knew he was capable of taking me to a round win.”

Garrett Jones was right behind him with an 86 point ride on Richardson’s 5 Go Blue. But F27 Slamma Jamma of Rawson’s.

Six riders thoroughly entertained the crowd by crossing the 6 second plus mark, with the crowd cheering them each time to make the whistle.

Cody Jesus returns to Tuff Hedeman Bull Riding Tour riding with a second place finish and a 90.5 ride in the four man Shoot Out round.

Cody Jesus returns to Tuff Hedeman Bull Riding Tour riding with a second place finish and a 90.5 ride in the four man Shoot Out round.

SEMIFINAL ROUND

Four bull riders qualified by score, and 8 advanced on time for the second and semifinal round, but only survival was only had by two in the THT rank pen of buckers who decided to put on a show for the crowd.  7412 Slip Knot (Cunningham & Hurst) would bring the event co-leader down in less than 3 seconds.

"He just blew out of there, and I don't really remember much of that one; I had seen my buddy Mason ride him in El Paso, and I was excited to get him. He left the chute real hard and got me sitting back on my pockets," chuckled Cravens.

El Paso Champion Demetrius Mitchell made a stand at 91 points on T & G's 1663 Tony B, followed by Paulo Lima's 90 points to help Danny Mason's 4185 Accelerator be part of the bull team win.  

SHOOT OUT

The top four scores after two rounds in the average advance to the sudden death Tuff Hedeman Shoot Out round, and after discussing the bulls with Hedeman, they were set to show Las Vegas how $30,000 is more easily won.

With zero bull riders making the whistle on two bulls, the event leader was Demetrius Mitchell with 91 in the semifinal round, earning selection number one from Hedeman’s list of buckers. He selected 7305 Flash of Lynda Hurst. The second to pick was Paulo Lima, who gambled on 334 Drifter... Cody Jesus chose 76D Brutal Player (Mason), which left Cravens with Barney Fife (Rawson).

“I knew I had a good bull underneath me, and he felt so good, lots of timing and the same thing every time."

"It was my first final four appearance, I was knocked out in the bucking chute in El Paso, but God was here with me tonight. I was calm,” said Cravens. 

El Paso Champion Demetrius advances to the finals four with the highest score in the long rounds, 91 points.

El Paso Champion Demetrius advances to the finals four with the highest score in the long rounds, 91 points.

THE BULL TEAM COMPETITION

Danny Mason might have swapped a bull around on his team. Still, his two utility player bulls, 55 Moneymaker and 3112 Dirty Blonde, once again anchored the team for the second consecutive week as he continued his sweep during the openings rounds of the Tuff Hedeman Bull Team Tour in 2021. 

Mason Bucking Bulls wins back to back checks and titles on the return of the 2021 Tuff Hedeman Bull Riding Tour

Mason Bucking Bulls wins back to back checks and titles on the return of the 2021 Tuff Hedeman Bull Riding Tour

A former bull rider, Mason, is tuned into the bulls he would want to get on and is a critic of his team players from week to week - that edge proved to be successful.

Dirty Blonde, who, according to Mason, tends to be lazy if he's not bucked consistently, was on the bubble of the draw, according to his owner/driver. Still, in the end, Mason decided he was a little lazy in El Paso, so he needed to work in Las Vegas. Paired with 55 Moneymaker and new bull 4185 Accelerator, Mason's team won the competition with 280.72 points, 2.9 points ahead of the second-place team of Mike Rawson's who also earned a check with just one qualified ride.

BULL TEAM RESULTS

1, Danny Mason, Mineral Wells, TX, 280.72 points, $22,000. 2, Rawson Bucking Bulls, 277.82 pts, $16,500. 3, Cunningham & Hurst, 276.36 pts, $11,000. 4, T&G Bucking Bulls, 275.59 pts, $5,500. 

BULL RIDER RESULTS

1, Cannon Cravens, Porum, OK, 91 points on Barney Fife (Rawson Bucking Bulls) $15,125.00. 2, Cody Jesus, Window Rock, AZ, 90.5 pts on, $8,375.00. 3, Paula Lima, 4, Demetrius Mitchell, $1,750. Paulo Lima, $1,750.

 

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Ounzie Mitchell Rides 3 for 3 to win first Hedeman title in El Paso

Demetrius “Ounzie” Mitchell debuts and wins his first Tuff Hedeman Bull Riding with a perfect 3 for 3 night.

Demetrius “Ounzie” Mitchell debuts and wins his first Tuff Hedeman Bull Riding with a perfect 3 for 3 night.

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Selecting a bull owned by the 1998 World Champion bull rider Owen Washburn, Demetrius “Ounzie” Mitchell made a big move to stay on top of  856 Big Whiskey for 91.5 points in the final four-man Shoot Out round to take home the $14,500  check and the championship title of the 2021 Casa Ford Tuff Hedeman Championship Bull Riding held Saturday night at the El Paso County Coliseum.

Wearing Panhandle Rock N Roll jeans, the Houston, Texas cowboy added $2,000 to his paycheck, making the most of his debut performance at a Tuff Hedeman Bull Riding.  Michelle rode past 24 riders and 15 qualified rides in the first two preliminary rounds to find himself in the driver’s seat for the Final four Shoot Out round.  Amongst six 90 point plus rides, Mitchell finished the night with a perfect 3 for 3 and a total score of 272.5 on three, but at Hedeman’s event, the Shoot Out round is where the bulk of the payday is earned.

Demetrius “Ounce” Mitchell may have been an unknown bull rider to most El Paso fans, but the 25-year-old is no stranger to rodeo and the bull riding world.  The Fresno, Texas, bull rider was 2 years old when his mom decided to let Ounce participate in a mutton busting competition. 23 years later, Mitchell was standing next to bull riding icon Tuff Hedeman winning one of the classic long-standing prestigious bull riding competitions in the industry,  the  Casa Ford Tuff Hedeman Bull Riding held annually for two decades at the El Paso County Coliseum.

Demetrius Mitchell enjoys his wins with the Casa Ford Crew who cheered him on from the front row box.

Demetrius Mitchell enjoys his wins with the Casa Ford Crew who cheered him on from the front row box.

ROUND ONE

Seven riders posted scores to ignite the crowd, with Mason Taylor of Maypearl, Texas, finishing on top with an 89.5 on  462 Lil Willard (Richardson Cattle). Michell started his night with 89 on 1448 Last Chance (Show-Me Rodeo). NFR bull rider Jacob O'Mara was on their heels at 88 on Dirty Blond (Mason Bucking Bulls), followed by Brandon Davis, Fernando Novia, Cannon Cravins, and Lucas Fideles.

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SEMI-FINAL ROUND

Mitchell posted the highest score of the night in round two with 92 points on 282 Mongoose (Cunningham and Hurst) to win round two and secure the top average position, and be the lead rider to select his final four bull for the win. Brandon Davis was second on 691 Homer (T&G Bucking Bulls) with 91 points, followed by the third 90 point plus ride of the round and Lucas Fideles on Rip (Cunningham & Hurst). New Mexico's favorite Joseph McConnell was 89, followed by Mason Taylor Carlos Gomex, Novia, and O'Mara, all posting qualified scores.

Lucas Fideles rides 2 including a 90 point ride in the Semifinal round..

Lucas Fideles rides 2 including a 90 point ride in the Semifinal round..

SHOOT OUT

Mitchell earned the right to select his ride first, which was 856 Big Whiskey (Washburn). Second in the average thus far was Mason Taylor choosing 7412 Slip Knot (Hurst). At 258 on two, Brandon Davis picked 334 Drifter (Harris), leaving O’Mara, 175 on two, to ride 799 Randy Boone (Washburn).

3 of 4 bull riders brought the fans to their feet with one spectacular ride after another, but it was Mitchell who stole the winner take all-around, edging out Taylor by one point with a 91.5 on Big Whiskey to take the lion’s share of the prize money home to Houston.

Wearing Rock N Roll Jeans, Mitchell scored an extra $2, 000 from Panhandle!

Wearing Rock N Roll Jeans, Mitchell scored an extra $2, 000 from Panhandle!

BULL TEAM COMPETITION

For the second consecutive year, Danny Mason of Mineral Wells, Texas, took home the top prize and check for the Tuff Hedeman Bull Team competition featuring three bulls and a check for $26,000. Mason's trio of bulls included 55  Money Maker, 3112 Dirty Blonde, and 76D Brutal Player, and they racked up 284.50 to clear the field of 12 teams by four points.

Cannon Cravens rides 6820 Devil Dog owned by 3rd place bull team winner Cunningham and Hurst for 86.5 points.

Cannon Cravens rides 6820 Devil Dog owned by 3rd place bull team winner Cunningham and Hurst for 86.5 points.

BULL TEAM RESULTS

1, Mason Bucking Bulls, Mineral Wells, Texas, 284.50, $26,000. 2, T& G Bucking Bulls, 280.28, $19,500. 3, Richard Land & Cattle Co., 280.01, $13,000. Cunningham & Hurst,276.80, $6,500.

BULL RIDER RESULTS – SHOOT OUT ROUND

1, Demetrius Mitchell, Houston, Texas 91.5 points on Big Whiskey (Washburn), $10,500. 2, Mason Taylor, Maypearl, TX, 90.5 on Slip Knot (Hurst) $7,200. 3, Brandon Davis 90 pts on 334 Drifter (Harris), $5,550. 4, Jacob O’Mara, BO 799 Randy Boone (Washburn) $2,250.

 

 

 

HEDEMAN TAPS CELEBRATED TALENT FROM MEXICO TO COMPETE IN EL PASO

2020 Casa Ford Tuff Hedeman Bull Riding Champion Colten Fritzlan

2020 Casa Ford Tuff Hedeman Bull Riding Champion Colten Fritzlan


The Casa Ford Tuff Hedeman Bull Riding

EL PASO, Texas – (July 13, 2021) – Four-time World Champion Bull Rider and Pro Rodeo Hall of Famer, Tuff Hedeman, announced this week he has invited a highly decorated bull riding champion from Mexico to compete in the 2021 Casa Ford Tuff Hedeman Bull Riding. Hedeman, known for cultivating talent in the bull riding arena, announced today an invitation to compete at the Casa Ford Tuff Hedeman Bull Riding Tour had been issued to Mexican bull rider Ricardo Gonzalez.

“It is exciting to have Ricardo compete in El Paso in what will definitely be a hometown crowd advantage for them, he is a proven champion and should compete well at this level of pro event,” said Hedeman.

For over three decades Hedeman's legendary mentoring and leadership has bull riders following him onto the dirt as he provided the opportunity for them to win money while competing on great livestock.

Medican Bull Riding Champion Ricardo Gonzales received an invitation to compete and will be signing autographs. (see schedule below)

Medican Bull Riding Champion Ricardo Gonzales received an invitation to compete and will be signing autographs. (see schedule below)

Fans will have an opportunity to meet and take selfies with Ricardo at Casa Ford, 5815 Montana from 3 pm to 5 pm on Wednesday, July 14, and Friday at Whataburger from 6 pm to 7 pm at 121 Montwood, El Paso, 79936.  Nicknamed "Tiger," Ricardo will be trying to capitalize on the hometown energy provided by the fans while in El Paso. Gonzalez has been competing professionally for 24 years and is a PBR, and PRCA bull riding champion in Mexico and was recently asked to compete by Hedeman in his one-night-only three-round tournament-style performance worth $30,000 in prize money to the invitation-only bull riders.  

 Ricardo will join the 24 top-ranked professional cowboys on the dirt inside the El Paso County Coliseum for the three-round sudden death tournament-style bull riding set to begin at 8 pm on Saturday night. The annual bucking bull blowout is the same classic event of Hedeman’s held in previous years in February and is expected to sell out as always.

There are no guarantees in bull riding; the only way for cowboys to earn a paycheck is to ride better than the rest of the 24-man field.  The field of competition which starts with 24 riders, then 12 and finally 4 in the Shoot Out where they will battle for the lion’s share of $30,000 in prize money. The night’s excitement will culminate as the final four bull riders will get a third opportunity to ride for cash.

Tuff Hedeman Bullfighters and Bullfighters Only champion Beau Schueth  and Bryce Redo will be in El Paso again this year.

Tuff Hedeman Bullfighters and Bullfighters Only champion Beau Schueth and Bryce Redo will be in El Paso again this year.

The Casa Ford Tuff Hedeman Bull Riding is known for its action-packed performances that keep fans on the edge of their seats and every time Tuff Hedeman returns to his hometown of El Paso it is always a great show! Hedeman, who has produced the El Paso event for over two decases, recruits rodeo’s leading entertainment including returning NFR barrelman of the year, entertainer Robbie Hodges and the Tuff Hedeman Bullfighters Bryce Redo and Beau Schueth who are both Bullfighters Only Champions.  From having world class bulls matched up with superstar riders, to upbeat music and enthusiastic fans and a few show surprises here and there, there is something for everyone.

Fans have many opportunities to meet Tuff Hedeman and the bull riders around town this week. See Schedule below.

Fans have many opportunities to meet Tuff Hedeman and the bull riders around town this week. See Schedule below.

Tickets on Sale now at the El Paso County Coliseum,  or Tickets or Ticketmaster.com. Fans are encouraged to get their tickets now as the show is expected to be a sell-out. Tickets are available at tuffhedemanbullriding.com and ticketmaster.com. Follow Tuff Hedeman on Facebook and Instagram @OfficialTuffHedeman. WEBSITES:  www.tuffhedemanbullriding.com and  www.ticketmaster.com. Event Location: El Paso County Coliseum 4100 E Paisano, El Paso, TX 79905

For interviews, press credentials and more information please contact, Leigh Ann at 940-902-1112 or tuffhedemanpr@gmail.com or Gina@ravemarketing.com.

APPEARANCE SCHEDULE

Wednesday, February 13

3 pm – 5 pm       Autograph Signing with Mexican champion Ricardo Gonzales will be signing autographs at Casa Ford, 5815 Montana, El Paso, 79925.   

 THURSDAY, July 14

3 pm – 5 pm       Autograph Signing – Tuff Hedeman and Bull riders iat Casa Ford, 5815 Montana, El Paso 79925

FRIDAY, July 16

3 pm to 5 pm     Autograph Signing – Bull Riders, Casa Ford, 5815 Montana, El Paso 79925

3 pm to 5 pm    Autograph Signing – Tuff Hedeman (4 pm) and bull riders - Cavender’s, Fountains at         Farah Shopping Center, 8889 Gateway Blvd W, El Paso 79925

 6 pm – 8 pm       Autograph Signing – Tuff Hedeman and bull riders - Whataburger 12140 Montwood, EL Paso,  79936

 Saturday, July 17

5:00 -7:30 PM - Tailgate Down Party and Concert – Parking Lot of Coliseum – open to all event attendees, sponsors and staff – Featuring the Brian Mars Band live on the Western Tech Stage.  Food vendors and Coors/Coors Light beer on sale.

 6:30 PM - El Paso Coliseum Doors Open to the public with tickets

8:00 PM – The Casa Ford Tuff Hedeman Bull Riding

10:00 PMAfter Party at Whiskey Dicks 1580 George Dieter Dr. Ste. 204, El Paso TX 79936

Tickets available at Ticketmaster link ,Tickets or Ticketmaster by Phone: 1-800-745--2021-3629704 or in person at the El Paso County Coliseum Box Office.

Interview requests, press credentials, and more information, please contact Gina@ravemarketing.com or Leigh Ann Schroeder 940.902.1112 tuffhedemanpr@gmail.com.

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Tuff Hedeman Bull Riding LIVE Returns to the South Point Arena

2020 Tuff Hedeman Bull Riding South Point Champion, 4-time NFR Qualifier Boudreaux Campbell

2020 Tuff Hedeman Bull Riding South Point Champion, 4-time NFR Qualifier Boudreaux Campbell

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Tuff Hedeman Bull Riding presented by Boot Barn and Discount Tire

 

Four-Time World Champion and Pro Rodeo Hall of Famer Tuff Hedeman announced today Tuff Hedeman Bull Riding will return to the South Point Arena & Equestrian Center for a one-night-only live performance Saturday, July 24, 2021.

"It is an honor and privilege to be the first live ticketed event in the South Point Arena; we have all missed the fans and the energy and support they bring to our sport and production; we have not produced a bull riding until we could have fans, so bring it on," said Hedeman.

National Finals Barrelman, JJ Harrison and Tuff Hedeman Bullfighters return to action  July 24, 2021 at the South Point Arena in Las Vegas.

National Finals Barrelman, JJ Harrison and Tuff Hedeman Bullfighters return to action July 24, 2021 at the South Point Arena in Las Vegas.

The annual performance will once again feature an elite lineup of World Champions, National Finals Rodeo qualifiers, and the young guns battling top-ranked bucking bulls for a prize purse of $30,000. Tickets go on sale on Monday, June 7 online at southpointcasino.com/entertainment, Ticketmaster.com and www.tuffhedemanbullriding.com or at the South Point Hotel, Casino & Spa box office.

The two-hour action-packed adrenaline rush show features a star-studded lineup of world-class bulls pitted against proven champs and the sizzling hot bull riders on tour today. The annual event showcases the industry's top 24 ranked bull riders for a one night only performance which tests their skills against the highly skilled bull athletes.

He is known as the pioneer of the sport of professional bull riding, Hedeman, who has produced bull riding events for over 33 years and can be seen frequently as a bull riding television broadcast analyst. As Hedeman returns to Las Vegas, his signature event features three rounds of the competition ending in a sudden death ride-off.

"I look forward every year to providing the Las Vegas fans and visitors with a top-rated bull riding competition and a great entertainment lineup; we always bring a few World Champions, National Finals Rodeo qualifiers and the best of the next generation of champions to the South Point," said Hedeman.

"It is simple; anytime you have $30,000 in prize money and an event in Las Vegas, you will attract the sport's elite bull riders," said Hedeman. “You and your family will enjoy top-shelf entertainment, including past NFR Clown and Barrelman, J.J. Harrison and the Tuff Hedeman Bullfighters, and grand pyrotechnics introductions - wrapped around a two-hour adrenaline rush competition. This is family-fun entertainment, and no bull riding experience or knowledge is necessary to enjoy this high-energy adrenaline rush show.”

Doors will open at 6 p.m. for ticket holders to enjoy the pre-event activities on the concourse, including great food, cold beer, shopping, and autograph opportunities. The bull riding kicks off at 7 p.m.

EVENT LOCATION: South Point Arena & Equestrian Center, 9777 Las Vegas Blvd South, Las Vegas, NV 89183. Phone: 866-791-7111

TICKETS: Available online at southpointcasino.com/entertainment, Ticketmaster.com and www.tuffhedemanbullriding.com or at the South Point Hotel, Casino & Spa box office or by phone at 866-791-7111.

Discount coupon locations include Boot Barn, Discount Tire, and Tractor Supply. Ticket Pricing is $45 for reserved and $30 for general admission. Children under the age of 12 are half price for all levels. $5 off for military and seniors.

Tuff Hedeman and bull riders' appearances will be released at a later date.

For more information, interviews, and media credentials, please contact Leigh Ann Schroeder, 940.902.1112 or tuffhedemanpr@gmail.com.

NFR Qualifier Sage Kimzey

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Sage Kimzey is undeniably the Tom Brady of bull riding. Both have dominated their fields, earning six professional world titles with years left in their future Hall of Fame careers to achieve more.

 Brady is one of five quarterbacks in the NFL and NCAA football history that have won a Super Bowl and NCAA Div. 1 College Championship. Kimzey only shares his legendary status with one – Don Gay, 8-time PRCA World Champion Bull Rider.

Like Brady, Kimzey succeeded early, winning three Championship Bull Riding World titles alongside his PRCA bull riding domination and proved his ability to compete against PBR gold buckles, winning the All-American twice and the Calgary Stampede three times.

Throughout Kimzey’s career, his social media has consistently included the hashtag #BecomeLegendary. He hopes to be the best bull rider when he retires and the best person.

“To be legendary, you have to be the best in and out of the arena.” - Sage Kimzey.

#BecomeLegendary    Kimzey with Rodeo legends Bobby Brown, Tuff Hedeman, Ken Henry and Mike Brady.

#BecomeLegendary Kimzey with Rodeo legends Bobby Brown, Tuff Hedeman, Ken Henry and Mike Brady.

Kimzey’s year barely begun when ankle surgery was needed in February from an injury sustained in San Antonio. He would lose the number one ranking to Ky Hamilton and Boudreaux Campbell at times, but as we have seen so many times before, he would accept his back number at the PRCA ceremony as the #1 ranked bull rider in the world.

He has earned six world titles and 7 NFR qualifications. Making the most of his NFR’s he won the NFR Average title in 2014, 2017, and 2019.

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2020 earned Kimzey $92,334 in PRCA earnings riding 47% of the bulls he attempted to claim the number one position. He posted three 90 point rides and an 82.43 average ride score. But his 2020 was anything but ordinary with his marriage to longtime love, journalist, and entrepreneur Alexis Bloomer. Traveling and competing amongst an international pandemic and coming from behind, a place he is unfamiliar with after competing professionally since 2013.

Record breaking 3-time CBR World Champion Sage Steele Kimzey with Tuff HedemanKimzey won the title in 2013, 2015, 2016

Record breaking 3-time CBR World Champion Sage Steele Kimzey with Tuff Hedeman

Kimzey won the title in 2013, 2015, 2016

In 2019 Kimzey won his sixth consecutive bull riding world championship and third average title after winning a record $235,359 (including ground money) at the Wrangler NFR. He won Rounds 7 and 8 and placed in eight. Kimzey finished at the top of the world standings with a record $480,797 (including ground money).

7-time NFR Qualifier Sage Kimzey has won the Average title 3 of the 6 times he competed at the National Finals Rodeo

7-time NFR Qualifier Sage Kimzey has won the Average title 3 of the 6 times he competed at the National Finals Rodeo

2018: Won Round 10, split the win in Round 3, and placed in four rounds to rank fifth in the average at the Wrangler NFR with 347 points on four head. He finished the year at the top of the world standings for the fifth consecutive year with $415,263.

2017: Won Rounds 5 and 10, split the win in Round 3, and placed in five rounds to rank first in the average with 601.5 points on seven head. Finished the year ranked first in the world standings with $436,479.

2016: Won Round 1 and placed in five rounds to rank third at the Wrangler NFR and claim his third consecutive world champ title with $311,462.

 2015: Placed in seven rounds at the Wrangler NFR to finish second in the average and win his second consecutive world championship with $327,178.

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 2014: Won an event-record-tying four rounds of the Wrangler NFR to secure the average title and become the second rookie bull rider to win a gold buckle, following Bill Kornell (1963). His total Wrangler NFR earnings of $175,466 were the highest of any competitor in Las Vegas, giving him the RAM Truck Top Gun Award and allowing him to finish with a rookie record total (any event or combined) of $318,631.

2013: Set a PRCA record for most money won on a permit in a single season with $47,726

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Kimzey’s family is no stranger to the limelight at the NFR. His younger brother Trey is a bull rider who competed alongside him at the NFR in 2019. His father, Ted, was a longtime PRCA barrelman/clown who worked at the National Finals Rodeo in 1980 and 1987 (alternate 1986), and his mother, Jennifer, is the CEO of Gold Buckle Realty. Sage's older sister, Dusta O'Connell, is a rodeo competitor and trick rider turned pharmacist. He graduated from Cheyenne (Okla.) High School, where he played basketball as a point guard all four years, won the state championship his senior year. Kimzey became the youngest millionaire in PRCA history during the 2016 Wrangler NFR, at 22 years, three months, and two weeks old.

(List of NFL Super Bowl and NCAA Div. 1 winning Quarterbacks are Tom Brady, Ken Stabler, Joe Namath, Joe Montana, Bernie Kosar)

 

 

NFR Qualifier Ky Hamilton

No. 2 ranked PRCA bull rider - Rookie Ty Hamilton

No. 2 ranked PRCA bull rider - Rookie Ty Hamilton

 

Moving to a foreign country alone and making it in a professional sport is no small feat. Still, for 20-year-old Australian bull rider Ky Hamilton, he just had the same goal as most other bull riders during 2020, making the National Finals Rodeo.

A native of Mackay, Queensland bull riding rookie Ky Hamilton finished as the No. 2 bull rider in the world with $89,447 in the PRCA bank. He led the world standings in September but finished second to 5-time World Champion  Sage Kimzey.

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"At the end of the day, our job is to ride bulls,” - Ky Hamilton

Hamiltons season included five event wins, including one ( Grand Island (Neb.) Xtreme Bull's title. He rode 40 out of 89 attempts for a 45% riding average and an 82.85 average ride score. He posted one 90-point ride on Eyebrows at the Las Fiesta De Los Vaqueros rodeo.

From 2014-2019 in September, Sage Kimzey would lead the world standings and claim the world championship. Kimzey has never trailed in September once during his run. Hamilton became the first rookie bull rider to be at the top of the leaderboards in September since 2014. The last rookie to do that? You guessed it—Sage Kimzey back in 2014 when he won his first title.

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His success and ultimate NFR qualification was no surprise to Head Rodeo Coach C.J. Aragon, who has seen this young phenom burst his way into the top of the bull riding scene with his brand of Queensland tenacity, style, and flash.

In 2019 Hamilton won Belton County, 4th Of July Celebration & PRCA Rodeo, and the New Mexico State Fair & Xtreme Bulls in Albuquerque. Hamilton finished eighth in 2019 RAM Rodeo Permit Standings with $26,081.

According to Hamilton, his decision to travel with veteran bull rider Clayton Sellars paid off and definitely had its advantages.

"Clayton, he knows the ropes, the bulls, and how to find the locker room at the NFR," laughed the rookies. But at the end of the season, this band of bull riding brothers all three achieved their goal, with Hamilton ranking No. 2 in the world standings. 

Hamilton found his place in the Sellars truck with fellow PRCA rookie Colten Fritzlan after meeting in the regional college competitions as a bull rider for Sull Ross State in Alpine, Texas.

Taking on the entering rodeos responsibility Hamilton had this to say about the experience.

 “I get stressed a lot, and I feel like I have to organize everyone, but it doesn't happen that way, it’s a lot of fun, and we have fun a lot.”

 Hamilton hails from a rodeo family. His older brother L’Koi and father rode saddle bronc horses and bulls in Australia. His cousins were bullfighters, and his grandfather rode bareback horses and saddle broncs. He started riding steers at age 12 and rodeoed in the United States for the first time at the Junior High School Finals in Iowa at age 15.

NFR Qualifier Boudreaux Campbell

4-time NFR qualifier Boudreaux Campbell of Crockett, Texas, on his way to victory at the South Point Tuff Hedeman Bull Riding.

4-time NFR qualifier Boudreaux Campbell of Crockett, Texas, on his way to victory at the South Point Tuff Hedeman Bull Riding.

22-year-old Boudreaux Campbell heads to his fourth National Finals Rodeo in four years since joining the PRCA in 2017. The 2019 Reserve World Champion bull rider earned $85,746 on 32 qualified rides from 79 bulls to return to the NFR in  2020. During the regular season, his 41% ride average came with an 84.82 average ride score the No. 3 spot on the NFR bull riding roster.

He began 2020 winning the San Antonio Stock Show Extreme Bulls that came with a season boost of $15,000 check-in late February.

Boudreaux's path to professional bull riding began when he was four years old.  Campbell's mindset has never waivered from winning and being the best, and he has continued to push himself to be one of the top 15 bull riders in the world for the fourth straight year.

 The left-handed bull rider Campbell who frequently says, "I have one job – stay on,"  has used that mantra since winning the  Texas State Jr. High and High School state bull riding championships. That same year he graduated from Lovelady High School, he won the 2017 Resistol PRCA Rookie of the Year contest.

“I have one job - stay on” - Boudreaux Campbell

“I have one job - stay on” - Boudreaux Campbell

In 2017 as a rodeo rookie, he earned his top 15 rank and first NFR appearance at the last two rodeos of the year, where he hung on to qualify for his first trip to the NFR after winning ten bull riding rodeo events during the regular season. Adjusting to the chaos that can be your first trip to the Superbowl of rodeo,  he got advice to “dig deep and go get it.” He then split the  Round 9 win and finished 10th in the world standings with $144,601.

In 2018 he finished significantly higher at number 8 with earnings of $106,430.78 in qualifying dollars.  A disappointing second trip to Vegas left Campbell in 14th place. He placed in one round on one head, earning $29 038, and total 2018 earnings of $135,469 with ten event title wins.

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In 2019 Campbell was the second place bull rider challenging Sage Kimzey to defend his four-year reign over the bull riding category. Finishing second came with total earnings of  $344,573 for the year. He placed second in the average after earning $217,801, won Rounds 6 and 9, and placed in seven.           

This team roping, former basketball-playing Dallas Cowboys fan began his pro career with Tuff Hedeman. In both CBR and Tuff Hedeman Bull Riding Tour events, he earned over $100,000 with Hedeman standing in front of the chutes; most recently, Campbell earned the South Point THBRT championship last March.

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NFR Qualifier Dustin Boquet

2-time NFR Qualifier Dustin Boquet at the Hobbs, NM Tuff Hedeman Bull Riding.

2-time NFR Qualifier Dustin Boquet at the Hobbs, NM Tuff Hedeman Bull Riding.

Dustin Boquet, the twenty-six-year-old Louisiana native from Montagut, earned $81,566 for his second chance to compete at the National Finals Rodeo beginning next week in Arlington, Texas, where he enters as the No. 4 ranked bull rider on the contestant draw.

The Cajun cowboy made 31 qualified rides on 79 attempts to win four event titles in bull riding, including the SWELS - Xtreme Bulls (Fort Worth, Texas). His 39% ride average and 83.9 average ride score got him a Top 5 ranking for the second time as he makes his way to the 2020 Super Bowl of Rodeo.

Qualifying for the NFR is logistically no easy feat for the cowboy whose home is 45 minutes south of New Orleans. Bouquet missed the 2019 NFR finishing 36th in the world standings, but 2018 was a completely different story.

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In 2018 Boquet jumped 47 places from the 2017 PRCA World Standings to qualify for the 2018 NFR as the No. 3 ranked bull rider in the PRCA. Once he arrived in Las Vegas, he won Round 6 and placed in three rounds to rank seventh with 262.5 points on three head at the NFR. Bouquet Finished 7th in the world standings with $196,934. In 2018 Boquet competed in approximately 110 rodeos, winning seven titles, which earned him $114,587.51 during his quest to compete at the NFR for the first time.

In 2017 he won the Trinity Valley Exposition Fair & Rodeo (Liberty, Texas) and ranked 50th in the world standings with $30,257 in earnings.

Boquet didn't get on his first bull until he was 16, which some would call a "late" start, but he more than made up for it with this stellar season. His process was to give it all he had and know that there would be tough times and great times. "I just keep my faith strong and kept chasing the goal I had, and it paid off. "

"If Prayer becomes a habit, then success becomes a lifestyle" was his mantra that same year, also using #mygamehisglory.

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In 2016, Boguet was attempting a PRCA and CBR run, and in January, he broke his leg in the practice pen eliminating him from competition for seven months. When he got back on his feet, he qualified for the 2017 CBR World Finals in Cheyenne, where he finished in the top 25 and shifted his efforts to rodeo, where he earned $32,272 in the early days of 2018 qualifying.

Dustin enjoys outdoor sports including fishing and hunting and his social media is full of great photos of enjoying the outdoors. Boquet joins a long line of successful Louisiana bull riding talent, including 2-time NFR qualifier Koby Radley, PRCA World Champion Mike White (1999), PBR World Champions Troy Dunn (1998), Chris Shivers (2003), and CBR World Champion Cole Echols (2013).

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NFR Qualifier Brady Portenier

2020 NFR Rookie Brady Portenier at the El Paso Tuff Hedeman Bull Riding.

2020 NFR Rookie Brady Portenier at the El Paso Tuff Hedeman Bull Riding.

Everyone always says, "follow your dreams!" But not everyone does it. Turning his passion and dream into a career 25-year-old, Brady Portenier of Caldwell Idaho will check in as the No. 5 ranked bull rider in the World at the 2020 NFR for the first time since his quest began in 2013.

Growing up, I always wanted to be one of those guys. So this is absolutely everything I ever could have wanted or asked for. I’m really blessed that it’s happening this way,” Portenier said. “I just love it. I love the adrenaline and the danger of it, I suppose.”

Pulling his rope for the first time at the National Finals Rodeo, Portenier endured seven years of ups and down to achieve his dream. Earning $73,10572.  Portenier rode 36 of 72 bulls for qualified rides or a career season-high of  50%. His average ride score was 82.49, and he posted two 90 point rides, both in Fort Worth winning the Southwestern Exposition and Livestock Show.

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“Because this sport isn’t easy and for everyone. You have to be tough if you want to make it out here, and I learned a lot about myself and the type of person I really was through it all. It really showed me I was cut out for this life.”

The 6 ‘1 cowboy broke the top 20 rankings three times in his career. In 2019 he finished 19th with $80,569 in earnings. 2018 he was 20th with $86 419 in earnings, but the heartbreak was 2017.

Following a 34th place finish in 2016, Portenier won six different rodeos in bull riding, including Reno and the Elgin Stampede in Belton, Texas. He broke the six-figure mark in earnings with more than $100,000 racked up and had his best year to date with a final world ranking of 16th.

“It’s all I’ve ever known. It’s the lifestyle I want, and I wouldn't change a dang thing.".

The 25-year-old grew up learning the sport when he was six from his father, Ty, who was also a PRCA bull.,

“My buddies and I would always find a way to sneak behind the chutes,” Portenier laughed. “I got to see all those top guys that you hear about and see on TV. I suppose going there gave me a good idea about what being a real rodeo cowboy was all about.”

After qualifying for the National High School Finals Rodeo as a junior in 2012, the 2013 Middleton graduate elected not to go to college but rather start his professional career almost immediately. Following a year on his permit, a severe leg injury marred his first two years on the PRCA Tour.

After being bucked off, the bull stepped on his leg and nearly snapped it in half. He was entirely out of action for the next sixth months, and it hampered him for another year and a half after that.

“There were many times where I couldn’t even afford to go back out on the road for another rodeo because I hardly had anything in my bank account,” Portenier said. “But I handled that, and looking back on it; I'm grateful for those whoopings. I needed the experience of working through something like that.”

 

 

NFR Qualifier Jeff Askey

Jeff Askey on Chaos (Melton) at the Hobbs Tuff Hedeman Bull Riding

Jeff Askey on Chaos (Melton) at the Hobbs Tuff Hedeman Bull Riding


 Jeff Askey earned his No. 6 position and fourth appearance at the National Finals Rodeo, winning four PRCA rodeo event titles and earnings of $66,227. As Askey approaches his fourth NFR, he attributes maturity as one of his success cornerstones at 32 years old.

"You learn to control your mentality and your emotions and go do your job, not as much flusters me anymore."

"During my first NFR, the energy was overwhelming; the difference now is I have settled in and feel more at home, and I just go do my job. If anyone tells you they don't get nervous at the NFR, they are probably lying, but you learn how to harness it and put it aside and just go do your job."

"This year's it's in my back yard, I am pumped – it's my stopping grounds and just an hour from the house, and I might go home once or twice during the week and sleep in my own bed.

Jeff Askey has been riding bulls professionally since 2010. He got on his first bull at 13ars old. He has enjoyed a million dollars of success on all pro bull riding tours and PRCA.

Jeff Askey has been riding bulls professionally since 2010. He got on his first bull at 13ars old. He has enjoyed a million dollars of success on all pro bull riding tours and PRCA.

Askey's highest marked ride of the pandemic season was 91 points on Hollywood nights (Frontier Rodeo) in Pasadena, Texas, in September.

"He was a little fast and bucky yellow bull, it was really cool I broke the arena record – first arena record I know I broke, and that was really pretty special and cool to me."

Askey put a string of qualified rides together, riding 40 of 86 bulls or 47% of the time he pulled his rope. Askey's average marked ride score is 82.44, his highest season average since joining the PRCA in 2010.

Pro Rodeo is not the only arena Askey has enjoyed tremendous success. He has won multiple championships on the major pro bull riding tours, including Tuff Hedeman Bull Riding Tour, CBR, and PBR, which no doubt make him a million-dollar cowboy. Askey, the 5'8, 155-pound thirty-two-year-old bull rider, won the College National Finals Rodeo bull riding in 2010.

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Askey, a University of Tennessee-Martin graduate animal science degree, grew up in Pennsylvania but now calls Athens, Texas home. He first got on rough stock at a junior bull riding when he was 13.

In 2019 Askey finished 13th in the world standings with $157,329. He placed in three rounds at the NFR and finished seventh in the average after earning $43,635.

In 2018 Askey placed in five rounds to rank third in the average at the NFR with 424 points on five head. He finished the year ranked fifth in the world standings with $225,624.

2017 was full of injuries, and he finished the year a disappointing 36th in the world standings with $43,856.

2016 was his first NFR appearance and special after narrowly missing the previous three years. In 2015 he lost the NFR by $207, finishing 16th with $62,427. In 2014 he was 19th with $55,122, and in 2013 he came in 21st.

In his first NFR, he placed in one round to rank 14th at the NFR. He finished 11th in the world standings with $134,993.

"Riding bulls is your life and lifestyle, and if you enjoy it, it's not a job. The riding itself is what you love to do and enjoy, and the planning is just tending to business."

"I like them to keep me guessing," said Askey about his style and bucking bulls.

"I don't study bulls, I think it's a preference deal, I go at it bull by bull, and that seems to work for me," added Askey.

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Best Advice: Advice to the next generation of bull riders…

"You have to know what works for you and what your own mentality is and what is effective for you – take everything with a grain salt and find your own path," Jeff Askey.

NFR Qualifier Roscoe Jarboe

4-time NFR qualifier Roscoe Jarboe winning the Bossier Tuff Hedeman Bull Riding            Photo by Todd Brewer

4-time NFR qualifier Roscoe Jarboe winning the Bossier Tuff Hedeman Bull Riding Photo by Todd Brewer

Four-time National Finals Rodeo qualifier and the Resistol 2016 PRCA Bull Riding Rookie of the Year earned $61,417.12 in 2020 and enters Globe Life Park as the No. 7th ranked bull rider for the 2020 PRCA National Finals Rodeo.

The 24-year-old bull rider from Plymouth, Idaho, made 30 qualified rides out of 65 or 46 percent. Jarboe’s Highest marked ride was 93 points on Magic Poison (Frontier) to win the Dodge City Rodeo Round-Up in August. His average ride score for the season was 82.7.

“If you have a dream, then chase it.  Don't cheat yourself and always put forth 100 percent. “

In 2019 Jarboe, missed NFR qualification and finished the year in 28th place and earnings of  $52,025.

Roscoe Jarboe

Roscoe Jarboe

2018 was Jarboe’s highest NFR ranking (4th) for the regular season qualification. He would go on to place in four rounds to rank fourth in the average with 404 points on five head at the NFR. He finished sixth in the world standings with $213,801. His  strong finish and NFR qualification is noteworthy, considering he missed three months of the season after injuring his back on March 21 following an 87-point ride on Andrews Rodeo's F1 at Rodeo Austin (Texas). Jarboe left the rodeo trail and returned home after he was diagnosed with a broken L3 vertebra.

"My back gets pretty sore now and again, but I think, in the long run, I will be all right.”

Jarboe finished ninth in the PRCA 2017 World Standings earning a total of $156,855 and placing in three rounds of the NFR, earning $53,154.  He was second in round one with an 87point ride on 3070 Braggin Rights (Honeycutt) for a check worth $20,731. Fifth in round six, earning $7,615 with 71 points on 2031 Undercover (Big Rafter Rodeo). In round seven, he was 84 points on 077 Salty Dog (Pickett) and finished third with $15,654.

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In 2016, his rookie year and NFR debut, he won round 2 and placed in two rounds to rank no.11 in the average and finished ninth in the World Standings with $149,765.

The 5'11, 145-pound bull rider joined the PRCA in 2015, where he earned $20,058 while competing on his PRCA permit. In 2015 he received $1,975 on his PRCA permit. He also competed in the PBR Touring Pro division from 2014-2016.

Jarboe began his career at  eight years old.

“I've basically lived and breathed bull riding my whole life.”

Jarboe, a past Oregon high school bull riding champion and a two-time National High School Finals Rodeo qualifier.

 



 

 

 

 

 

 

NFR Qualifier Stetson Wright

2019 All Around World Champion Stetson Wright winning the Ft. Worth Tuff Hedeman Bull Riding.

2019 All Around World Champion Stetson Wright winning the Ft. Worth Tuff Hedeman Bull Riding.

Stetson Wright, the 2019 PRCA All-Around World Champion cowboy, qualified for his second National Finals Rodeo this year in bull riding with earnings of $60,645.67.  His stats for 2020 include riding 41% of the bulls he attempted with an average ride score of 84.65. His highest marked ride of the season in bull riding came at the Gem State Classic Pro Rodeo in Idaho on Smooth Cut for 90 points. He won two events, including the San Angelo Xtreme Bulls. Wright finished 8th in bull riding and 13th in Saddle Bronc Riding.

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The 21-year-old began competing in rodeo in the fourth grade and is the only member of the infamous rodeo Wright family to compete in bull riding. He travels to Texas with his famous family for his second National Finals Rodeo in December, but he is no stranger to the limelight or the pressure of competing on the World stage.

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In 2019 he qualified for his debut at the NFR with $152,421.60 in regular-season competition. He won eleven bull riding event titles, including the prestigious Cheyenne Frontier Days. Once in Las Vegas, he won Rounds 1 and 4 and placed in five rounds in bull riding.  He finished fifth in the average after winning $114,923 and finished third in the world standings with $267,345. He finished 2019, winning the All-Around and total earnings of $297,923.

 In 2018 he finished the year with $68,069. Placed first in the 2018 RAM Rodeo Permit Standings for saddle bronc riding with $28,579 and second for bull riding with $39,49.

Unlike the other well-known family members, Stetson's favorite event is bull riding, and he committed to riding both bulls and broncs in the PRCA.

“My Dad (Cody Wright) stresses to stay positive, and you can do anything you want," said Wright during his first major bull riding title in 2019 at the  Tuff Hedeman Fort Worth Challenge in April.

Stetson is the son of two-time World Champion Saddle bronc rider (2008-2010) Cody and ShaRee Wright. His brothers are Rusty, Ryder (2017 World Champion saddle bronc), and Statler, and his sister is Lily. He is the nephew of World Champion saddle bronc riders Jesse Wright (2012) and Spencer Wright (2014 and his uncles Jake, Calvin, and Alex all compete.

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Stetson's early years included steer riding with Utah's junior associations during grade school. He moved through the ranks of the Junior High Rodeo Association, Utah High School Rodeo Association, Rocky Mountain Pro Rodeo Association, and other local rodeos, competing in multiple events.

 

NFR Qualifier Profile Ty Wallace

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Ty Wallace, a native of Colorado, currently living in Oklahoma, qualified for his fourth National Finals Rodeo with earnings of $60,233.83 and an impressive 85.77 average ride score, a four-point increase over his career record in 2018.

The 26-year-old competed in 51 rodeos with 22 qualified rides or 43%. Wallace's highest marked bull ride was a 92 on Braggin Rights owned by Honeycutt Rodeo to win the Fort Mohave Extreme Bulls Classic.

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Wallace had four PRCA rodeo event title wins, including Fort Mohave Extreme Bulls Competition.

Wallace weathered the storm of the COVID-19 coronavirus outbreak at his home in Ardmore, Oklahoma. Wallace, a native of Collbran, Colorado, made his home in Ardmore a little over a year ago and started his horseshoeing business while recovering from an injury.

“The key to a long break from rodeo, Wallace believes, isn’t just staying in physical shape or trying to practice. It’s also about staying mentally sharp until the rodeos can once again commence.

He had hoped to return to the rodeo road, and the NFR in 2020 after a broken arm sidelined him until early 2019. But the pandemic abruptly halted what was going to be his strong comeback season.

“Everybody’s like, ‘We can’t rodeo, there’s nothing to go to,’ but also, hindsight is 20/20,” Wallace said. “Stay in shape. Keep motivated. A lot of people just go home and sit around. Really, you could be taking advantage of a lot of this time to prepare for when it does come back around.

“Be prepared to get out there and be your best, staying in shape and working on fundamental stuff and staying busy. That’s how I look at it.”

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Wallace has made the National Finals Rodeo three times, most recently in 2017. At 23 years old, he finished No. 3 in the world standings with $305,352 in prize money, placed in six rounds of the NFR, fourth in the average with 500.5 points on six head. In 2016 he Finished 20th in the world standings with $57,259.

In 2015 he finished in the top ten in the world standings with $155,136. He won Round 7 and placed in two other rounds at the Wrangler National Finals Rodeo.

“I put a lot of time when I was younger into getting on bulls and doing it that way,” Wallace said. “I don’t just get on bulls just to keep tuned up. It’s a dangerous sport. I feel like if you can stay healthy and keep your mind sharp, like getting on a barrel, I have a drop barrel at home, I’ve been shoeing a lot of horses down here where I moved to, those things help.”

In 2014 he placed second in Round 8 and third in Round 5 of his Wrangler NFR debut. Finished 12th in the world standings with $93,935

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2013 was Wallace’s rookie year, and he finished 47th in the world standings and eighth in the rookie standings with $22,587 while missing much of the summer season with a broken collarbone and separated A/C joint in his shoulder.

His first year of pro-competition was 2012; he won the Steamboat Springs (Colo.) ProRodeo Series on July 20 and earned $6,070 on his permit. 

Wallace qualified for the College National Finals Rodeo as a freshman in 2013 and scored the highest marked ride of the rodeo (86 points) to win the second round and finished fifth in the average.

Wallace enjoys roping, riding colts, and ranching.

NFR QUALIFIER Colten Fritzlan

NFR qualifier Colten Fritzlan winning his first major pro title at the 2020  El Paso Tuff Hedeman Bull Riding aboard Red Armor (Burruss)  in February.              &nbsp…

NFR qualifier Colten Fritzlan winning his first major pro title at the 2020  El Paso Tuff Hedeman Bull Riding aboard Red Armor (Burruss)  in February.                                             Photo by Todd Brewer

19 year old Colten Fritzlan from Rifle, Colorado Colten is the fourth generation of Fritzlans drawn to rodeo competition. He qualified for his first National Finals Rodeo cracking the top 10  earning $58,561.23.

He made 38 qualified rides on 73 bulls for an average of 52%. His average ride score in 2020 was 82.01 with 4 go-round wins during this awkward season. His highest marked ride on the NFR  journey was aboard Smoke Stack for 88.5 points during the Elk City(OK) Rodeo of Champions in September.  Along the way he picked up  two PRCA rodeo titles (Odessa, Texas and Killdeer, ND).

Fritzlan  went three for three to win his largest paycheck of his career this year. He hopes to top that at the NFR.

Fritzlan  went three for three to win his largest paycheck of his career this year. He hopes to top that at the NFR.

Fritzlan, a member of the rodeo team of  West Texas College in Snyder, won his first major pro bull riding title and $14,275.00 in February at the El Paso Tuff Hedeman Bull Riding.

“I look at rodeo as God’s plan for me – what He’s put in front of me and wants me to achieve in life and in the arena,” says Colten Fritzlan. “I love the sport itself, especially bull riding, and the Lord really motivates me to go down the road and put in the time.”

 In 2019 he won the bull riding at the 2019 RAM Rodeo PRCA Permit-member Challenge during the Wrangler NFR in Las Vegas.

When he was 7 years old, his interest in roughstock led his parents to buy mini-bulls, steers, and, later, bulls. He was soon one of the best junior riders in the country. Colten moved up to steers, mini bulls, and eventually, bull riding. He is a student of Gary Leffews after attending one of his camps in 2013.

 “Bull riding is my favorite since I’ve been doing it the longest, but I also like that you’re not just competing against the animal or another competitor, but you’re bringing those forces together and seeing how it comes out when you make eight.”

During his youth career he sustained injuries and after limb restoration surgeries were a success he  emerged as one of the country’s top youth top riders during his high school years.

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Colten’s father rode bareback horses and steer wrestled and his uncle competed in Saddle Bronc. His grandfather was a jockey.

Colten enjoys the family business, Fritzlan & Family Guide & Outfitter Services, founded by Colten’s great-grandpa, Tom Fritzlan, more than 50 years ago. “It’s pretty relaxing up there – it gets my mind off everything,” he says. “There’s no phone service and it’s all dirt roads, so it has that old, country feel.” His grandfather, John Kenney, is a retired jockey, and he and his wife, Jean, come to many of Colten’s rodeos.