NFR Qualifier Roscoe Jarboe

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

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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

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.

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.”

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

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.                                             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, 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.

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.

NFR Qualifier Parker McCown

A familiar face on the Tuff Hedeman Bull Riding Tour, Parker McCown of Montgomery, Texas debuts at the National Finals Rodeo and will check in at the NFR in the No. 11 position for the bull riding event.

The 21-year-old Texas cowboy rode 43% of his bulls to qualify for his first National Finals Rodeo in 2020. He posted 36 qualified rides on 84 attempts. Within that statistic is four rodeo bull riding event title wins, $55,561.23 in earnings, and a high marked ride of 90 points on Rump Shaker at Rodeo Houston.

Before the chaos of 2020, there was 2019, which better tells the story of the NFR Rookie. The Montgomery, Texas cowboy earned $72,543 in 2019 to win the PRCA Permit Standings award. He qualified for the Intercollegiate National Finals Rodeo representing Hill College. He set the record for most money won on a PRCA permit for one year, including ground money breaking Trey Kimzey’s record set in 2019. He also shattered the record for most money won on a permit for a career in one event, not including ground money with $93,002. He competed in PRCA competition on his permit in 2018 and 2019.

Parker began riding bulls at age 12 after playing both baseball and football. With NFL quarterbacks Luke McCown and Josh McCown his cousins, it's no shock that the younger McCown will compete in the Superbowl of Rodeo. McCown earned his ranks in Junior Rodeo winning prestigious youth events followed by National High School Rodeo qualifying and was loyal to the Hill College Rodeo team riding in the Finals in 2019 while shattering PRCA Permit records.

McCown is an avid hunter, likes to work out, listens to George Strait, and will probably order some hibachi prepared food while in Arlington. 

Follow Parker’s journey to his first NFR @Parker-mccown24.

NFR Qualifier Tyler Bingham

El Paso Tuff Hedeman Bull Riding Champion, 2019, Tyler Bingham has been an integral

Tyler, the younger of the bull riding Bingham brothers, qualified for the NFR for the third consecutive season. He will begin the ten-day competition in 12th place with $55,557.55 in regular-season and over half a million dollars in lifetime PRCA earnings.

Bingham earned his top 15 place on the roster with 41 qualified rides from 89 attempts (46%) and an average ride score of 83.7.

Rodeo has been an integral part of Tyler’s life since he was a kid growing up in Ogden, Utah.

He and his brother Tim had that rodeo bond thru-out their respective professional careers as bull riders. They have celebrated each other's successes, including a combined five (soon to be six) appearances in the PRCA's Superbowl, the National Finals Rodeo in December.

A former National High School (2011) and College National Finals Bull Riding Champion (2013), and the 2018 Tuff Hedeman El Paso Champion,  Bingham won six rodeo titles this year to make it back to the NFR.

In 2019 Bingham finished fourth in the world standings with $246,399. Placed in five rounds at the Wrangler NFR and finished fourth in the average after earning $118,872 in Las Vegas.

In 2018 Bingham split the win in Round 3 with Sage Kimzey and placed in two rounds to rank 12th in the average with 155.5 points on two head at the Wrangler NFR with a $45,327 paycheck from Vegas. He finished 11th in World Standings.

Narrowly missing the chance to compete at the NFR alongside his brother Tim in 2017, he finished 18th in the world standings with $80,183.

Often traveling together, older brother Tim Bingham is a three-time National Finals Rodeo qualifier in bull riding. Tyler credits Tim for teaching him how to rodeo and achieve his goals in and out of the rodeo arena, including heading to the practice pen to stay in shape.

Bingham attended Hill College in Texas as a member of their esteemed college rodeo team.

The 5’10 165 pound Bingham admits to losing the “fire” for bull riding when he went to college but rekindled the flame when his brother Tyler qualified for the NFR in 2014, and he went out to cheer him on. 

Bingham works construction part-time when he is not riding bulls and aspires to someday retire as a full-time rancher. Bingham and his wife Jerica reside in Utah.

NFR Qualifier Trevor Kastner

6-time NFR qualifier Trevor Kastner, Roff, Oklahoma.

MAN WITH A PLAN

It's not how you start. It's how you finish; A tried and true saying that defines 33-year-old Oklahoma bull rider, Trevor Kastner. Last year Kastner said he set one goal each year…to qualify for the National Finals Rodeo. The son of a saddle bronc rider, Kastner, is now a six-time National Finals Rodeo qualifier and an elite rodeo athlete that will take center stage next month at the 2020 NFR.

Kastner enters Arlington as the number thirteenth ranked bull rider with total earnings this season of $55,281.

He competed on 60 bulls for 16 qualified rides or 27%. His average ride score is 85.38, with his highest mark ride 89.5 on Ferdinand to win the Dodge City Round-Up Xtreme Bulls. He is now a six-time NFR qualifier who admits 2020 was anything but ordinary. 

“I just stayed on the right one’s at the right time.”

Competing in approximately 30 rodeos this season, Kastner’s lifetime profile suggests he likes “big time” rodeos where he rides and finishes strong.  He’s won the big ones, RodeoHouston, and Fort Worth Livestock Show Rodeo twice, second at San Antonio this year, just to name a few.

In 2019 he finished 11th in the world standings with $161,216. He placed in one round at the Wrangler NFR and finished 14th in the average after earning $12,115 and earned a $58,00 paycheck winning RodeoHouston.

Kastner said the deep history of RODEOHOUSTON made the championship win there rewarding.

“The money stands out for sure, but the history of winning RodeoHouston has been going on here forever,” Kastner said. "To put your name next to the guys that have won, it is awesome."

 Kastner’s early career included qualifying for the Intercollegiate Rodeo Association College National Finals Rodeo in 2009-2010.  

In bull riding only competitions, he has competed on the Tuff Hedeman Bull Riding Tour as well as PBR and CBR pro tours. Kastner joined the PRCA in 2008.

In 2019 he finished 11th in the world standings with $161,216. He placed in one round at the Wrangler NFR and finished 14th in the average after earning $12,115. But 2019 was good for Kastner, winning  RodeoHouston and the $58,000 check that skyrocketed him to the top of the standings a while last year. 

He qualified for the NFR for the first time in 2011, finishing 12th in the world standings with $101,202. He placed in two rounds of his Wrangler NFR debut and had six event titles that season.

His best PRCA finish was in 2012. He was at the top of his game in the Thomas and Mack, winning $58,895 in round nine as he was the only qualified score in the "rank pen" of buckers. Kastner won two rounds and placed in three rounds, finished fifth in the PRCA world standings, and third in the NFR average with $80,096 for total earnings of 2018 earnings of $168,553.

In 2013 he won round 6 and tied round 9, placed in one other round to finish eighth in the world standings with $129,434.

In 2014, he broke a bone in his hand that is the slowest healing bone in the body, and that break sidelined him for the rest of the year.

In 2015 won he won three titles, finished 20th in the world standings with $56,157.  He would fight back from injury to qualify in 2018 after narrowly missing (16th in 2017) and 23rd in 2016.

In 2016 - Finished 16th in the world standings with $74,143.

In 2017 he finished 23rd in the world standings with $63,883 and ten event titles.

In 2018 he dislocated his shoulder in round six and left the competition with $10,000, the bonus check for qualifying, and ranked 15th in the average with 76 points on one head.

 It's not how you start. It's how you finish; A tried and true saying that defines 33-year-old Oklahoma bull rider, Trevor Kastner. Last year Kastner said he sets one goal each year…to qualify for the National Finals Rodeo. The son of a saddle bronc rider, Kastner, is now a six-time National Finals Rodeo qualifier and an elite rodeo athlete that will take center stage next month at the 2020 NFR.

Kastner enters Arlington as the number thirteenth ranked bull rider with total earnings this season of $55,281.  He competed on 60 bulls for 16 qualified rides or 27%. His average ride score is 85.38, with his highest mark ride 89.5 on Ferdinand to win the Dodge City Round-Up Xtreme Bulls. He is now a six-time NFR qualifier who admits 2020 was anything but ordinary. 

“I just stayed on the right one’s at the right time.”

Competing in approximately 30 rodeos this season, Kastner’s lifetime profile suggests he likes “big time” rodeos where he rides and finishes strong.  He’s won the big ones, RodeoHouston, and Fort Worth Livestock Show Rodeo twice, second at San Antonio this year, just to name a few.

In 2019 he finished 11th in the world standings with $161,216. He placed in one round at the Wrangler NFR and finished 14th in the average after earning $12,115 and earned a $58,00 paycheck winning RodeoHouston.

Kastner said the deep history of RODEOHOUSTON made the championship win there rewarding.

“The money stands out for sure, but the history of winning RodeoHouston has been going on here forever,” Kastner said. "To put your name next to the guys that have won, it is awesome."

 Kastner’s early career included qualifying for the Intercollegiate Rodeo Association College National Finals Rodeo in 2009-2010.  

In bull riding only competitions, he has competed on the Tuff Hedeman Bull Riding Tour as well as PBR and CBR pro tours. Kastner joined the PRCA in 2008.

In 2019 he finished 11th in the world standings with $161,216. He placed in one round at the Wrangler NFR and finished 14th in the average after earning $12,115. But 2019 was good for Kastner, winning  RodeoHouston and the $58,000 check that skyrocketed him to the top of the standings a while last year. 

He qualified for the NFR for the first time in 2011, finishing 12th in the world standings with $101,202. He placed in two rounds of his Wrangler NFR debut and had six event titles that season.

His best PRCA finish was in 2012. He was at the top of his game in the Thomas and Mack, winning $58,895 in round nine as he was the only qualified score in the "rank pen" of buckers. Kastner won two rounds and placed in three rounds, finished fifth in the PRCA world standings, and third in the NFR average with $80,096 for total earnings of 2018 earnings of $168,553.

In 2013 he won round 6 and tied round 9, placed in one other round to finish eighth in the world standings with $129,434.

In 2014, he broke a bone in his hand that is the slowest healing bone in the body, and that break sidelined him for the rest of the year.

In 2015 won he won three titles, finished 20th in the world standings with $56,157.  He would fight back from injury to qualify in 2018 after narrowly missing (16th in 2017) and 23rd in 2016.

In 2016 - Finished 16th in the world standings with $74,143.

In 2017 he finished 23rd in the world standings with $63,883 and ten event titles.

In 2018 he dislocated his shoulder in round six and left the competition with $10,000, the bonus check for qualifying, and ranked 15th in the average with 76 points on one head.

 Trevor lives with his wife and two children in Roff, Oklahoma.

NFR Qualifier Clayton Sellars

Clayton Sellars riding Jeff Harris’s Dirty Little Secret, South Point Tuff Hedeman Bull Riding Tour - Photo by Todd Brewer

Clayton “Bo” Sellars returns to the National Finals Rodeo in 2020 as a sophomore with earnings of $53,395 for his No. 14 slot on the bull riding roster.

Sellars, a 22-year-old bull rider from Fruitland, Florida now living in the cowboy capital of the World, Stephenville, will, like many cowboys, most likely commute to the NFR nightly competition at Globe Park in Arlington. 

He qualified for this year’s Superbowl of rodeo, winning three rodeo bull riding titles, including the prestigious Spanish Fork Fiesta Days Xtreme Bulls event where he took home his largest paycheck of the year, $4,484.  His season stats show 22 qualified rides, 5 PRCA go-round wins with an average score of 83.07 on 73 attempts (37%), slightly down from the last two years where he finished with 40 percent ride averages.

“What a year it has been.. from extreme lows to extreme highs, this year has taught me many things about myself, about my friends, about the world, and about what really matters. It's made me a better person, and for that, I am forever thankful.” – Clayton Sellars.

Sellar's highest marked ride was 89 points on Pete Carr’s Royal Reel at the Waller County Fair and Rodeo in early October.

Sellars was the 2018 Resistol Rookie of the Year in bull riding but missed the 2018 NFR by four slots. In 2019, he buckled down and went to Vegas as the #4 ranked bull rider proudly carrying the Florida state Flag in the Grand Entry ceremonies. He placed in two rounds last year and finished 2019 in 10th place and earned $28,827 in Vegas, with a total of $158.018 acquired in PRCA competition for the year.

Sellars on JQH Bucking Bulls Break the Chain, THT Bull Riding Tour - Photos by Todd Brewer

Clayton’s journey began when he joined the PRCA in 2017; his talent was evident as he won the RAM Rodeo Permit Standings the same year. He set his sights on Las Vegas that December but would fall short of the money earned needed to qualify for the NFR.  The former baseball and football player finished 19th that year with $90,863 for the 2018 season, winning nine events, including the Comal County Xtreme Bulls in New Braunfels and the Deadwood (S.D.) Days of '76 rodeo.                               

Bo's career began at seven years old when he decided to ride bulls like his Dad, brother, and cousin. He eventually would ride colts as well.

"It seems normal really," said Sellars, who hails from a family of rodeo competitors. "I don't know any different."

He qualified and competed at the National High School Rodeo finals for Leesburg High. Bo's father rode for Troy (Alabama). Still, the program was disbanded. With zero school in Florida offering rodeo scholarships, he was recruited and signed with Western Texas College in Snyder, Texas. He qualified for the College National Finals Rodeo in 2017-2018, finishing second overall in 2018 in bull riding. He went on to graduate with a degree in Agriculture Science.

NFR Qualifier Denton Fugate

Denton Fugate scores 90.5 points on Rip of Lyndal Hurst Pro Rodeo. Fugate finished third at the El Paso Tuff Hedeman Bull Riding Tour event in February of 2020.

 Its been a childhood dream come true and words can’t describe the feeling of working since I started and finally making it where I wanted to be,” Denton Fugate on qualifying for his first NFR.

 "I never could get it out of my system; I like the adrenaline rush," said Denton Fugate about his start in rodeo riding sheep, calves, then bulls. The Missouri native, now a resident of Arkansas, has been knocking on the door to his dreams for years earning bull riding titles in PRCA, Tuff Hedeman Bull Riding, PBR, CBR, and multiple state association’s competitions.

Rodeo is something Denton has grown up with, so he’s no stranger to the lessons of the road, even during a Pandemic.

“You have to know what your body can handle, from being hurt, to which places you need to enter,” said Fugate.

Denton Fugate with a few of his friends..Eli Vastbinder and Koby Radley in Del Rio, Texas.

In the beginning, Denton Fugate was the 2011 Youth Bull Riders Junior Bull riding World Champion while still studying for his high school diploma. Eight years later and several association title buckles on his mantel, Fugate reached a turning point in his career and qualified for his first National Finals Rodeo. Earning six rodeo bull riding titles for a total of $52,236.09 in 2020, Fugate enjoyed his highest season riding average and won six PRCA event titles.

 “Both of my parents, my mom ran barrels, and my dad team roped, and I got started getting on sheep, and it kind of stuck with me,” he says of climbing through the ranks up to bull riding he attended Three Rivers College and was on the rodeo team.

 "I like raising bulls whenever I'm home, bucking futurity bulls, and raising up one so I can see if I can have one that can go to bigger shows one day," he says.

 “The biggest challenge would probably be entering and staying healthy. You’ve got to enter the right dates to be able to go to the biggest rodeos. The biggest reward is being able to ride an 1800 pound beast that there’s no possible way that you should be able to ride.”

Fugate on Jeff Harris’ High Hopes during the Shoot Out Round of the 2020 Casa Ford ELP Tuff Hedeman Bull Riding.

He completed 23 qualified rides from 80 attempted beasts in anything but a regular season of pro rodeo. He earned 8 round wins with the first on Feb. 22 in San Antonio at the annual Stock Show. He thrilled the crowd with a 90 point ride aboard Andrews Rodeo’s Make My Day in the final round to put $23,000 in his bank. The Missouri-Arkansas cowboy boosted his PRCA standings and bank account, winning round one at Rodeo Houston before the rodo shut down. Fugate rode Cervi Rodeo’s bull Jack Hammer for 93 points and the highest marked ride of his season.

Fugate had $32,127 by mid-March and was in the top ten standings when rodeos were halted because of the COVID-19 pandemic.

When rodeos began to return, he was more than ready. "I was more than excited to get back to it. Getting to travel with my buddies again was great.”

“I had been getting on bulls throughout the whole quarantine-shutdown deal. Fugate relocated to Ash Flat, Ark., at the beginning of the year with the intent of improving his bull riding skills.

“I was spending a lot of time down here (in Ash Flat), and a place came up for sale. I ended up being able to buy it,” Fugate said. “Now, I live probably a quarter-mile from Cline (Cline Pro Rodeo). It's really convenient. I can get on bulls just about whenever I want." 

 In 2020 Fugate posted two 90 point plus rides, and his average ride score for 2020 is 83 points.

 With a career-best regular season now behind him, he earned the 15th spot on the roster edging out Levi Gary by $1,961.40, and his spirits are high as he heads to Arlington to ride for more. Fugate became a PRCA professional in 2015 after qualifying as a finals contestant for the 2014 PRCA Permit Challenge Finals.

Fugate finished 34th in 2019 with $41,208.

Professional

 2020 Highlights

• Won the Range Days Rodeo (Rapid City, S.D.)

• Won the Buffalo Bill Rodeo (North Platte, Neb.)

• Won the San Antonio (Texas) Stock Show & Rodeo

• Won the Trinity Valley Exposition Fair & Rodeo Xtreme Bulls (Liberty, Texas)

• Won the Range Days Rodeo (Rapid City, S.D.)

• Co-champion at the Guadalupe County Fair & PRCA Rodeo (Seguin, Texas)

WhiteHorse Debuts on Hedeman's Tour for the Win IN HURON

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

Whitehorse is all smiles after winning both nights of the Red Wilk Construction Tuff Hedeman Bull Bash

Utah cowboy Keyshawn Whitehorse rolled into Huron for the first time and left his mark on the Red Wilk Construction Tuff Hedeman Bull Bash's history chart.  Competing in the two-night event, Keyshawn racked up three 90 point plus rides, including a 92.5 in the Shoot Out round edging out Laramie Craigen for the event title and a two-day check totaling $17,400.60.

Whitehorse rides 407 Law Dog for 92.5 points to win the Red Wilk Construction Bull Bash at the South Dakota State Fair. (Scott Burruss Bucking Bulls)

The 2018 PBR Rookie of the year and 2-time PBR Finals qualifier had this to say about the victory,

“He was a really good bull, I talked to the stock contractor before I got on him and he liked the matchup, I said let's do it together, and I liked that bull's timing, I appreciate all the support from the fans and thank you, Tuff, for putting on such a great event and having me here."

Hedeman, who produced the event now in its 17th year, was impressed by Whitehorse and his performance.

"His rides spoke for himself, every bull he got on he was at least 90 points except the bounty bull on night one. He is a good guy, he is in great shape to ride bulls, no doubt he is talented, and we were happy to have him at the event.

 “Bull riding is a sport where you have to be constantly getting better,” and Laramie Craigen fit that description this weekend, said Hedeman about the only bull rider to go 3 for 3 on night two.

Following the awards presentation, Hedeman thanked the fans and the people of South Dakota who have the courage to stand up and do what’s right.

Whitehorse accepts prize checks from Tuff, Jenny Wilk and Red Wilk.

Round One

Round one quickly became a riding contest with ten bull riders making qualified rides, five of which were 90 and above scores. Section one produced two scores with Lane Nobles, a 90.5 on Show-Me Rodeo's White squirrel, and Austin Richardson followed that with an 89.5 on Lightning Livestock's 7 Joker. Veteran rider and NFR qualifier Aaron Pass rode Fat Boy thru a direction change and tied it up in section II with 90.5. Rookie Colton Byram went 86.5 on 150 Yoga Pants (Harris).

Richardson Land and Cattle Company’s Flea Flicker with Gray Essary in round one.

Whitehorse would lead off in section III and take the lead with 92 on 502 Cactus Jack (Richardson Land and Cattle). 2-time NFR cowboy Koby Radley joined the party with 90 points on 3112 Dirty Blonde (Mason/Smith Bucking Bulls) followed by Cole Skender with a 90 on 119 Chicken George (Rawson). Jacob O’Mara posted 87.5. Laramie Craigen posted 84.5 on his first bull after phoning a hometown friend for advice.

"I didn't know that bull but found out Cody Teel had him before, and I contacted him," said Craigen.

Semifinal Round

Drawing back four riders to the 13 man Semifinal, the bulls shut the party down, allowing only two scores to make the leaderboard. Matt Palmer, the defending Bull Bash champion was one of the victims.

Rookie rider Chauk Dees, drawn into the semifinals on time, made the most of it posting 89.5 on Harris's 5714 Wack’A Do.

Keyshawn Whitehorse for 92.5 on Richardson Land & Cattle Company’s Cactus Jack in round one. Richardson Land & Cattle were the TH Bull Team Challenge Champions on Friday night and second on Thursday’s competition.

Laramie Craigen was the first man to go 2 for 2 with 89.5 on Rawson's Risky Business. With 174 points, he would carry the lead into the Shoot Out round, which earns you the first pick of Hedeman’s final four matches.  

Shoot Out Round

Waiting in the chutes were four bulls from Burruss Bucking Bulls. Southeast Texas cowboy Laramie Craigen was first to select his opponent and had his eye on the bull that went right out of the chutes, and there were two up for grabs.

“Matt Palmer suggested I take Red Cloud and Tuff said he would suit me and be one to win it on, so I went with him,” said Craigen.

Laramie Craigen went a perfect 4 for 4 at the Red Wilk Construction Tuff Hedeman Bull Bash in Huron.

After a quick consultation with Hedeman, Keyshawn took 407 Law Dog, and Lane Nobles was matched to 505 Outer Limit, and Aaron Pass was left with 568 Kickstart My Heart.

The crowd fell silent as Pass and Nobles bucked off but were quickly brought back to life with Keyshawn Whitehorse riding thru 407’s change of direction and bucking power for a 92.5 ride.

Following Whitehorse, Craigen’s bull turned back right in the gate and into his hand with speed, but the bull power fell short, and Craigen was 91 points earning second place.       

Huron Bull Team Challenge

With all three bulls bucking to their potential, former pro bull rider Pistol Robinson stands by the theory he selects bulls that he would like to get on when loading the trailer and heading to the Tuff Hedeman Bull Team Challenge. Richardson Land and Cattle Co. took home the grand prize on Friday night and second place on Thursday for total earnings of $44,000 during their trip to Huron.

Richardson Land & Cattle Company wins night two Tuff Hedeman Bull Team Challenge in Huron

Defending Huron champion Matt Palmer on Richardson Land and Cattle Co’s 462 Lil Willard

“I can still feel what that bull feels like, if he hops and skips or something some bull guys don’t pick up on that. I am looking for kick first, and I like a little flash and pop that throws some nickels on those scores adding up for the win,” said Robinson.

The anchor bull for their team was 502 Cactus Jack who when matched with Keyshawn Whitehorse, led the team with a total bull score of 90 to also be the highest marked bull score of the night. Lil Willard and Matt Palmer earned an 87.5 bull score and Flea Flicker earned 86 points with Gray Essary. They won the championship with two qualified rides and one buck off. (Palmer).

Harris Bucking Bulls took home a two-night earnings check winning first on Thursday night’s competition and second on Friday for a grand total of $43,500. On his championship team Thursday night 4733 Fat Boy  led the team with an 88 point bull score and 90.5 ride score from Chauk Dees. 5713 Wack-A-Do posted an 86.5 bull score bucking off Tristan McCelland in 6.67 seconds. Bringing up the rear was 150 Yoga Pants, who earned 85.50 points bucking Trey Kimzey off at 5.99.   

The Tuff Hedeman Bull Team Challenge featured 13 bull teams participating Friday night and 12 on Thursday night for a total of $125,000 in prize money.

Red Wilk Construction Tuff Hedeman Bull Bash Results - Friday, Sept. 4, 2020

1, Keyshawn Whitehorse, McCracken Spring, UT, 92.5 on Law Dog (Burrus), $14,175. 2, Laramie Craigen, Winnie, TX, 91 points on 14 Red Cloud (Burruss) $9,075 3, Aaron Pass, Kaufman, TX, $1,500. 4,Lane Nobles, West, TX, $1,500. 

Tuff Hedeman Breakout Series - Thursday, Sept. 3, 2020

1,Keyshawn Whitehorse, 92 pts on 506 Missouri Fury, JC Knapp Bucking Bulls, $3,225. 2,Lane Nobles, 91 points on 51 Red Armor, $2329.60, 3, Chauk Dees, 90.5 on 4733 Fat Boy, $1433.60. 4,DJ Parker, 89.5 on 13 Overtime, $985.60. 5/6, Creek Young, and Laramie Craigen both 89 pts $492.80.

Tuff Hedeman Bull Team Results - Friday, Sept. 4, 2020

1, Richardson Land & Cattle Co. (Coolidge, TX) 283.83 points, $26,000. 2,Harris Bucking Bulls, (Palestine, TX) 282 pts, $19,500. 3,Mike Rawson, (Martinsville, TX) 280.51,$13,000. 4,Mason/Smith Bucking Bulls, (Mineral Wells,TX) 280.30, $6,500.

Tuff Hedeman Breakout Series Bull Team Results - Thursday, Sept. 3, 2020

1, Harris Bucking Bulls, Palestine, TX, 280.66 pts, $24,000. 2, Richardson Land & Cattle, 279.55, $18,000. 3, Rawson Bucking Bulls, Martinsville, TX, 279.38 pts, $12,000. 4, Knapp Bucking Bulls, Mansfield, TX, 278.86 pts, $6,000

TUFF HEDEMAN TAPS UNRIDDEN BULL FOR $10,000 BOUNTY IN HURON

Red Wilk Construction Bull Bash at the South Dakota State Fair

Four-time World Champion bull rider, and Pro Rodeo Hall of Famer, Tuff Hedeman, announced today he selected the unridden 139 Doc Holiday as the Bounty Bull for night one of the Red Wilk Construction Bull Bash at the South Dakota State Fair in Huron.

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 seventeenth year.

Among them, Burruss Bucking Bulls, a renown stock contractor from Bradford, Arkansas, and the unridden bucking bull branded 139.

Doc Holiday arrives with a bounty bonus check of $10,000 that will be awarded to one lucky professional bull rider if he can stay on him 8 seconds. Sounds easy, right? Well, keep reading.

The 1,750-pound five-year-old black bucking bull sport big horns and a white face. As of September 2nd he is unridden in professional rodeo and bull riding competitions.

“What makes him tough to ride is he is strong, and he raises the bull rider up before he turns back, you better be ready because he will go either way," said Garrett Burruss, who trains, travels, and flanks the prize bucker for the family's rodeo company.

If you are the lucky rider with the highest score from Thursday nights long round, you will be pitted against Doc Holiday to attempt to collect the $10,000 bonus check from Tuff Hedeman.

Father and son stock contractors, Garrett and Scott Burruss of Bradford, Arkansas return to Huron. Photograph accepting round win buckles for the bucking stock at the National Finals Rodeo in Las Vegas.

Friday night’s lineup will follow the tour’s three-round tournament-style format, which is popular with fans as it allows them to see their favorite riders challenge as many as three bulls in one night. As the bull riders progress, each earning money for their qualified rides, the final four-man Shoot Out round determines the winner and receives the bulk of the prize money.

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 are $20 for adults and are available by calling 866-605-FAIR, or online www.sdstatefair.com. For more information and media credentials or interviews, please contact Leigh Ann Schroeder, 940.902.1112 via text or call.

$30,000 prize purse lures NFR superstars to Huron

Red Wilk Construction Bull Bash at the South Dakota State Fair

HURON, South Dakota – (August 27, 2020) –  Four-time World Champion and Pro Rodeo Hall of Famer Tuff Hedeman and local businessman Red Wilk announced today they are in final preparations of the Red Wilk Construction Bull Bash, a fan-favorite event that has become a South Dakota State Fair tradition. 

Coming to Huron for 17 consecutive years, Tuff Hedeman announced Governor Kristi Noem would welcome the crowd carrying the American flag in the opening ceremony on Thursday night. The two night $30,000 bull riding extravaganza kicks off the 136-year-old South Dakota State Fair on Thursday and Friday, September 3 and 4th.  (Click here to Buy Tickets)

Governor Kristi Noem will carry the American Flag at the opening ceremonies of the Red Wilk Construction Tuff Hedeman Bull Bash

Lining up 40 top professional athletes to face off with elite bred to buck bulls in a two night, intense high energy man vs. beast competition, the Red Wilk Construction Bull Bash is again set to entertain the fairgoers and ticketholders in the main Grandstands. Battling for prize packages worth $7,500 on Thursday and $30,000 on Friday, two bull riders will find their way to the winners circle to accept the custom created trophy buckle and prize check from Tuff Hedeman.

2020 Tuff Hedeman El Paso Champion Colten Fritlan will compete for the first time in Huron.

Hedeman also announced Thursday night will feature one round with a Bounty Bull opportunity for the rider who earns the highest score in the first performance. That rider will be given a chance to attempt the bounty bull for a bonus check of $10,000.

“If he hears the 8-second whistle while still on the bulls back, he gets the paycheck,” added Hedeman.

Two-time National Finals Rodeo Qualifier Koby Radley will return to compete in Huron

2018 Chammp Trey Holsten with Tuff Hedeman and Jenny and Red Wilk. Holsten was the 2018 champion

Matt Palmer of Chelsea, Oklahoma, was the last man standing in 2019 and Hedeman announced he would be in Huron to defend his 2019 Bull Bash title. Joining him will be National Finals Rodeo stars Koby Radley, Eli Vastbinder, Jacob O’Mara, Aaron Pass, and a host of talent including former Break-out Bull Bash champion Trey Holsten, Tyler Taylor, Daniel Keeping and Colten Fritzlan.

Bullfighters Bryce Redo (Crosby, Texas) and Beau Schueth (O’Neill, Nebraska) return to protect the cowboys while in the arena, and J.J. Harrison (Walla Walla, Washington) will join them for comedic breaks and featured entertainment. Harrison is known for his off the cuff stuff and spur of the moment quick wit that keep fans laughing.

“I would say I’m just a ball of dancing energy that will be all over the arena in Huron,” Harrison said.

“We would not be in Huron without Red Wilk, we share the same ideas and values in producing great family-friendly entertainment, and a competitive event that thrills the fans and the riders want to come to – I’m excited about this year with the line-up of talent IN and on the bucking chutes.”

Hedeman’s event also includes two nights of the Tuff Hedeman Bull Riding Bull Team Challenge competition. Over 50 elite bucking bull athletes will be in Huron competing in teams consisting of three bulls per team. The two-night combined prize monies equal approximately $100,000.

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.

The Red Wilk Construction Bull Bash will be held at the South Dakota State Fairgrounds, 1060 3rd St. SW.  Tickets are on sale. Tickets are $12 for youth and $20 for adults and are available by calling 866-605-FAIR or online www.sdstatefair.com. Doors open at 6 pm with the action getting underway at 8 pm nightly.

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

Tuff Hedeman Bull Bash Returns to the South Dakota State Fair

The 2020 Red Wilk Construction Tuff Hedeman Bull Bash Presented by the South Dakota State Fair

HURON, South Dakota - July 28, 2020, – Tuff Hedeman in conjunction with the South Dakota State Fair announced today that tickets (Ticket Link) are on sale for the annual Red Wilk Construction Tuff Hedeman Bull Bash, presented by the South Dakota State Fair on September 3-4, 2020.

2019 Red Wilk Construction Bull Bash Champion - Matt Palmer Photos by Todd Brewer

The highly anticipated two-day event returns to Huron as the annual kick off for the 135th season of the South Dakota State Fair. The Red Wilk Construction Tuff Hedeman Bull Bash features two nights and five rounds of an action-packed high energy family friendly event.

The doors open at 6:00 pm and you can bet Hedeman will have the bulls locked and loaded ready to buck at 8:00 pm nightly.

For seventeen years, the pioneer of the sport of standalone bull riding, Tuff Hedeman, and local businessman Red Wilk produce this fan favorite event that kicks off the South Dakota State Fair. Photo by Todd Brewer

For seventeen years, the pioneer of the sport of standalone bull riding, Tuff Hedeman, and local businessman Red Wilk produce this fan favorite event thrilling audiences as the opening grandstand event at the Fair.  Hedeman’s three round sudden death format is an adrenaline rush competition wrapped around traditional western entertainment.

“We would not be in Huron without Red Wilk, we share the same ideas and values in producing great entertainment for the bull riding fans in South Dakota and we look forward to coming to Huron each year,” said Hedeman.

Caleb MaCaslin

Hedeman’s signature three round tournament style format is popular with fans as it allows them to see their favorite riders challenge as many as three bulls in one night. As the bull riders progress each earning money for their qualified rides, the final four man Shoot Out round determines the winner and the bulk of the prize money. 

”My original goals have not changed since 1992. I’m still committed to producing bull riding events that give each bull rider entered the chance to win first and make sure the fans at every event are getting more than expected,” said Hedeman.

Hedeman’s tour has been on hiatus due to the Coronovirus Pandemic since March of this year. He had this to say about returning to the arena.

“The virus will always be a concern in 2020, but we trust the local and state leaders of this event and the Huron community and I am confident they will practice safe measures for the ticketholders, organizers and contestants, we would not be coming if we did not have mutual trust,” said 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. Tuff Hedeman and the rider’s appearance schedule with rider roster to be announced at a later date. 

The Red Wilk Construction Bull Bash will be held at the South Dakota State Fairgrounds, 1060 3rd St. SW.  Tickets are on sale. Tickets are $12 for youth and $20 for adults and are available by calling 866-605-FAIR, or online www.sdstatefair.com. A list of contestants will be available at a later date.

For interviews, press credentials and additional information please contact Leigh Ann Schroeder, 940.902.1112 or tuffhedemanpr@gmail.com, or @leighaschroeder.

About the South Dakota State Fair

As developments continue to emerge around the COVID-19 pandemic, including the extension of the social distancing guidelines in the United States, seating and details regarding public appearances, check the www.sdstatefair.com for announcements and updates. Exposure to COVID-19 is an inherent risk in any public location where people are present. The South Dakota State Fair cannot guarantee you will not be exposed during your visit.

We will implement enhanced health and safety measures for our guests and staff members during the 2020 South Dakota State Fair.

COVID-19 is an extremely contagious disease that can lead to severe illness and death. The CDC and State of South Dakota advise those who are particularly vulnerable to COVID-19, including those over age 60 and those suffering from underlying medical conditions to evaluate their own risk in determining whether to attend the State Fair. People who show no symptoms can spread Coronavirus if they are infected, and any interaction with the general public poses an elevated risk of infection. By visiting the South Dakota State Fairgrounds, you voluntarily assume all risks related to exposure to COVID-19.

2019 Red Wilk Construction Bull Bash Champion, Matt Palmer

Yeary rides three for his first win on the Tuff Hedeman Bull Riding Tour

Brody Yeary wins Tuff Hedeman Bull Riding in Las Vegas aboard Jeff Harris’s High Hopes

South Point Hotel & Casino Tuff Hedeman Bull Riding

presented by Boot Barn and Discount Tires

LAS VEGAS -  Riding past eight National Finals Rodeo qualifiers and seven of the top 20 ranked bull riders in pro rodeo, 22-year-old Brody Yeary of Morgan Mill, Texas was the lone rider to deliver a three for three performance to win the thirteenth edition of the South Point Hotel & Casino Tuff Hedeman Bull Riding on Saturday night.

"On all three tonight, I called for them and walked up and went to 'em, so I was on the move more than usual and changed that up a little - I call that my slump buster,” said a smiling Brody Yeary.

South Point General Manager Ryan Growney and Tuff Hedeman present Brody Yeary with the prize check

The 2014 Texas High School Bull Riding Champion walked away with $24,000, and the THBRT prize package including a custom trophy buckle, and a $2,000 Panhandle Western Wear bonus check for winning the event wearing Rock N Roll denim jeans.

Panhandle & Rock & Roll Denim Marketing Manager Matt Cosby presents Brody Yeary with the $2,000 bonus check for winning while wearing Rock N Roll Jeans.

According to Yeary, he likes being on the road, which this week includes five days of competing, and a win like this boosts your confidence going into the next event.  Yeary is currently ranked No. 14 in the PRCA with over $27,000 in earnings this year.

"It helps me stay tuned up, and then when you catch the rhythm, you just ride the wave," said Yeary of the tight schedule as he left Las Vegas Saturday night en route to Fort Worth to compete on Sunday.

Hedeman, in town for several days promoting the event and meeting fans, enjoyed his thirteenth year of producing bull ridings at the South Point Equestrian Center, and Arena had this to say about the event.

“People want to see great bull rides, and if you are not a consistent bull or bull rider you won't be invited, it’s really simple - good bulls and good “riders make a great show for the fans it’s that kind of consistency you will see at our events.” – Tuff Hedeman.

ROUND ONE

Taking advantage of the high energy in the South Point Equestrian Center, 8 NFR qualifiers and 10 of the PRCA’s top 20 produced eight qualified rides in round one.

Chase Doughtery advanced to the Semifinals on JQH’s Dirt Rich

Roscoe Jarboe was the first gunner and set the pace with 87.5 on Mike Rawson’s 2801 Speckled Chicken. Brett Custer took the lead two riders later with 88 on Mason’s Dirty Blonde. Top 5 PRCA bull rider J.T. Moore would outscore the field early in the second section with 89 points on 14 Red Cloud (Burruss).  Chase Doughtery, making his debut on Hedeman’s Tour, kept pace with an 84 on JQH's Dirt Rich, followed by Jordan Spear's 88 on Top Line (Whisnant/Shaw).

JT Moore and bullfighter Beau Scheuth narrowly escape Scooby

Headed into the last section of the round one, Yeary would begin his quest with an 85 on Read Between the Lines (Richardson Land & Cattle).

"I didn't know him, but Pistol Robinson hauls him, and if he tells me he's good, he's good. I saw a video of Aaron Pass riding him, and he felt great just like he looked in the video," said Yeary.

“I didn’t know him but if Pistol says he’s good…he’s good,” said Yeary of his first round bull Read Between the Lines, Richardson Land and Cattle Co.

Playing come and get me, the field of 28 elite bull riders took shot after shot at the No. 4 man in pro rodeo, J.T. Moore. Six contenders would challenge Moore’s 89, but only one would succeed. Boudreaux Campbell who stole the round from Moore when he posted the first 90 point ride of the night aboard Halpain’s 303 Force Awakened.  

SEMIFINAL ROUND

With eight qualified rides advancing on scores, Parker McCown, J.C. Mortensen, Wyatt Rogers, and Lon Danley would drawback on time.

The bulls slowed the action down to a crawl in the semifinal 12 man round, allowing only three riders to hear the whistle while still riding.

Lon Danley would be the first to ride and post a score with 89 points on the seldom ridden bull Kookaburra (Knapp). The next four would buck off.

Yeary in the No. 7 position would be the first to ride two as he claimed the lead with 89.5 points on Lil Willard (Richardson) and now led with an average of 174.5.

“Another of Pistol’s and I knew him, he threw me off last year, but he had about the same trip, but he actually felt a little better since I got buy him,” added Yeary. 

Yeary gets by Lil Williard in the Semfinal round with 89.5 points-

Turning the crowd into his hand after five consecutive buck offs, Campbell would take the event lead with 181 on two when he won the Semifinal round with a 91 point ride on Blame it on the Whiskey (JQH)

Boudreaux Campbell wins Semifinal round and assists JQH Bull Team to the team win with 91 points on Blame It On the Whiskey.

SHOOT OUT ROUND

With only two with scores on two, the Shoot Out round would bring back J.T. Moore and Lon Danly on their single score of 89 in round one and two.  Leading the pack with 181 on two, Campbell selected Speckled Bird (Burrus) for his winning ride attempt. Second, in line to pick was Yeary.

“I didn’t look at the final four list before the event, I am really not real bull savvy, but Jeff Harris told me to pick his and if you get the shot take High Hopes and we can win this deal.” 

Moore and Danly would select and buck off Torch and Nikki Sixx both from Burruss Bucking Bulls.

Then there were two – both seasoned riders who are accustomed to the big stage for big money.

Yeary in complete control had High Hopes into his hand, almost as they left the chute. The No. 8 ranked PRCA rider looking for his first National Finals Rodeo in December, had this to say about his 90 points on High Hopes.

“He was smaller than I expected but he was darn sure gasy, but felt really good, I don’t mind the size, really try hard to be a well-rounded bull rider and be able to ride them big small and everything in between.”

Campbell was trying to claim all three rounds and defend the THBRT Las Vegas title came up a little short when Speckled Bird changed directions on him at the end of the trip.

THBRT BULL TEAM CHALLENGE

JQH Bucking Bulls of Amarillo, Texas, won their first Tuff Hedeman Bull Riding Tour event of 2020 inside the South Point Equestrian Center in  Las Vegas.

JQH Bucking Bulls wins Las Vegas Bull Team Challenge

You get to select what three bulls to enter at the THBRT bull team challenge, but you don't get to pick your riders. JQH could probably not ended up with a better line up if they had been allowed to hand-select their cowboys. As luck would have it, JQH had three NFR qualifiers on their trio of buckers to win the event with 283.01 points, 5.75 points ahead of the second-place team of Burruss/Interstate Treating Inc.

Trey Kimzey on JQH 4008 Missing After Dark a member of the winning bull team team in Las Vegas

Trey Kimzey was their first out, and he would not earn a score but took Missing After Midnight 5.51 seconds and their second out was Chase Doughtery who went 84 points on 07C Dirt Rich.

Anchoring their bull scores in the second round was Boudreaux Campbell when he won the Semifinals with 91 points on Blame it on the Whiskey, sealing the win for the husband and wife bull team of Skip and Elaine Jones.

3rd place bull team Halpain Bucking Bulls’s Painted Demon posted the highest bull score of the night with 90.5 points. Rider - Parker McCown.

The highest bull score was 90.5 points and earned by Halpain Bucking bulls with Parker’s McCowns attempt of Painted Demon in the semifinal round.

Las Vegas Results

1, Brody Yeary, Morgan Mill, Texas, 90 points on High Hopes (Harris) $22,000, 264.5 on three bulls. 2, Boudreaux Campbell, Crockett, Texas, 181 pts on 3, $2,250. 3, JT Moore, 89 Pts on 3, $2250. 4, Lon Danely 89 pts on 3, $2,250.

THBRT BULL TEAM RESULTS

1, JQH Bucking Bulls, Amarillo, Texas, 283.01 points, $24,000. 2, Burruss/Interstate, 277.26 pts, $18,000. 3, Halpain Bucking Bulls, 277.22, $12,000. 4, Mason/Smith, 277.19, $6,000.

The South Point Las Vegas Tuff Hedeman Bull Riding event is available for viewing on TuffHedemanTV.com. For more information, see www.tuffhedemanbullriding.com or contact Leigh Ann Schroeder, 940.902.1112, tuffhedemanpr@gmail.com.

Las Vegas Bull Profile

Eli Vastbinder on #55 Money Maker, owned by Danny Mason and Sharon Smiths

#55 Money Maker

The title Money Maker means many things to many people. It’s a hit rap song released by Ludacris, a board game where you create your own money, and the Urban dictionary definition was a female's gluteus maximus. But Danny Mason of Mineral Wells, Texas, will tell you it’s the old school definition that he had in mind when he renamed this five-year-old super star fire-branded #55.

“Of all the bulls I bring, I don’t care where we are I know he’s going to buck no matter how many times they ride him it’s the same tracks,” said Danny Mason who co-owns 55 with his sister and partner in Mason-Smith Bull Team, Sharon Mason Smith.

The nickname 55 stuck until Mason realized this calf was going to make some money. Fast forward a few years, and in addition to padding the bank accounts of the Mason and Smith bull team, 55 has made several bull riders a little wealthier as well.

Tyler Bingham cashed a $7,587.50 check when he rode him for 91.5 points in the shoot-out round to tie for the win at the Hobbs Tuff Hedeman Bull Riding.

In February, Reid Barker advanced and won the semi-final round in El Paso with a 91 on what is fast becoming the bull rider’s favorite bull to draw.

"The first time I saw him in Hobbs, I pulled his rope, and I breathed a sigh of relief, thinking this could be mine tonight. He had a lot of timing to the right with rhythm after two or three rounds he gave me a big blinker, kicked twice and came back around away from my hand,” said Barker.

But his career on the Tuff Hedeman Tour began in Bossier City in 2018 when Roscoe Jarboe scored 88.5 points to advance and eventually win the event, thanks to first-round bull Money Maker.

"55 was into my hand, and he was a good bull that's only a four year old, he was in the gate to the right and pulled me down, and it was a dog fight after that to get him rode, but it worked out,” said Jarboe.

Reid Barker, El Paso THBRT, advances to the Shoot out on Money Maker

At four years old and 1,500 pounds, #55 Money Maker cuts the figure of a big-time professional bucking bull.  He may even fool you into thinking he's already been to the majors with his consistent stats, stand in the chute business-like attitude, but what his owners say is his best quality is his intent to buck.

No. 55, sired by NFR bull Scout, an Oscar Velvet pedigreed bucker, is out of a Hammertime daughter. But the athletic red bull began his journey to the spotlight when Danny bought him from Reed Corder of Sonora, Texas, as a "coming two-year-old".  

Sharon and I feel like when we are looking to buy bulls that they have to be real "intentional," and what I mean is they buck with intent, have a wow factor, and not just bucking but an intent to buck and doing it with intensity.

"In our minds, the bull must look good bucking…and look good when he bucks them off," said Mason.

"I can't ask for a more honest bull that is full of heart, and he bucks his heart out every time.”

Danny Mason pilots Mason-Smith Bull Team to its first team win in 2020 in El Paso, Texas

The Journey

As a two-year-old, Mason continued to develop 55 and began his competition career entering him in the Texas Bucking Bull Association where he consistently earned checks as a two-year-old including being the 2017 Reserve Champion as a futurity calf and came back in 2018 to claim the Year-end and Finals Champion buckle as a three-year-old or Derby bull.

He and Mason have developed a unique relationship along the way, and according to his traveling partner and escort to Las Vegas, he has never hooked Danny or a cowboy.

 “We don’t really do anything out of the ordinary with him, but I move him around and keep him loose while we are traveling to these events, he eats well and is a pretty easy keeper, but he rules the roost for sure,” added Mason.

Described as the type of bull that a guy that rides well is supposed to ride according to Mason, he does have a few extra tricks sometimes.  

“If you are in the middle riding him, he feels it and blows and goes the other way, if you are struggling, he stays to the right," said Mason.

“I know he's the kind of bull that the bull riders love to get on him and want to get on him – if they ride him, they will be in high 80's to 90's.”

When asked about a signature move Mason replied with a smile, “he loves to leap off the trailer like a long jumper.”  

 Mason and Smith’s Bull team operation is a brother-sister duo that got their start when Roy Carter called to sell some calves.

“Sharon’s husband just happened to be out there when we're bucking them, and it kind of went and developed from that day.

“We continued to buy bulls and spent the first few years competing with them in the ABBI and UBBI competitions and graduated more recently and really enjoy the bull team world.”

Sharon is an active working partner, and we talk about everything before making decisions with our bulls and bull team competition schedule.  Keeping around ten bulls to draw from, Mason said they keep about 5 top end and the rest in the middle category. 

Moore Cash Please - The Tuff Hedeman Bull Riding Rolls into Las Vegas

One of pro rodeo’s top 5 bull riders, JT Moore of Alvin, Texas scheduled to compete at the South Point Tuff Hedeman Bull Riding

South Point Tuff Hedeman Bull Riding

High Scores and big checks are what four professional cowboys ranked among the top 15 in the country, are hoping to earn as they head west for the Tuff Hedeman Bull Riding at the South Point Hotel & Casino Equestrian Center on February 29, 2020.

Providing an opportunity for bull riders and bulls to earn a combined $80,000 - Tuff Hedeman Bull Riding returns to the South Point Equestrian Center on Feb. 29

Twenty-six elite bull riding athletes will try to increase their Saturday night payday in the three-round sudden style event worth $30,000 to the riders and brought to Las Vegas annually by four-time World Champion and Pro Rodeo Hall of Famer, Tuff Hedeman.

“These guys all have what it takes to ride at the highest level, you never know on what night who is going to make a great ride and then again it is Vegas where we usually have some surprises too,” said Hedeman. 

Bull riders who have a chance to win over $200,000 on Hedeman’s tour are making his invitation-only events a priority in the first quarter of the year to help finance their dreams of returning to Las Vegas in December for the National Finals Rodeo.

“Between January and April, there are Hobbs, El Paso, Las Vegas, and Fort Worth events, and there’s a lot of money up for grabs,” said Hedeman, the bull riding analyst for the NFR on the CBS TV broadcast in December.

Fans not able to be in Las Vegas in December for the NFR, can take this opportunity to see several of the industry's perennial stars and see the industry’s young guns at the South Point.

Among the highlighted riders on the roster, who, according to ProRodeo.com, have amassed $91,496.58 collectively early in this season, are fourth-ranked JT Moore of Alvin,Texas, No. 5 Parker McCowan, Montgomery, Texas, No. 8 Brody Yeary, Morgan Mill, Texas, and the 2018 Las Vegas THBRT Champion and 2019 NFR qualifier Ruger Piva, Chalis, Idaho.

2018 Las Vegas THBRT Champion returns to the South Point

Moore, like many bull riders, hails from a family involved in agriculture, raising cattle and hay in Southeast Texas. He expressed an interest in rodeo and began riding sheep. Moore's dad bought him several to practice on. He advanced to calves, then steers with each stage he focused on practice. That plan has served him well as he is now ranked fourth in the Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association world championship standings.

A win in Las Vegas would be his second Tuff Hedeman Bull Riding title. Money and confidence come with a big event title win, both crucial for Moore to continue moving towards the top of the standings and his goal of returning to Las Vegas in December as a contestant in his first National Finals Rodeo.

Brody Yeary among to Pro Rodeo contenders riding in Las Vegas next week.

Moore, who missed the 2019 Superbowl of rodeo with a mid-season injury, has been focused since the beginning of the 2020 PRCA qualifying and riding consistently with traveling partner Parker McCown, never out of the top 5 in the World Standings.

Hedeman's invitation-only THBRT Bull Team competition will highlight the first two rounds of competition where superstar buckers, including World Champion and NFR bulls, will compete in teams of three. The bulls are also looking for cash as they compete for over $50,000.

Hedeman also announced the return of Cody Sosebee, rodeo's top award-winning entertainer, to the South Point. Sosebee, the 2019 PRCA Entertainer of the Year and 2017 NFR barrelman, will be entertaining the crowd with his spontaneous humor and roaming the crowd giving away merchandise during breaks in the action.

Fans can catch Hedeman and the bull riders in person for selfies and autographs at Boot Barn on Friday, February 28, at 11 am to 1 pm at the store on S. Las Vegas Boulevard, and the popular rock stars of the rodeo will be available for again for fans to meet in the arena immediately following the bull riding.

“I look forward every year to providing the Las Vegas fans and visitors with a top-rated bull riding competition and a great entertainment line-up, we always bring a few World Champions and National Finals Rodeo qualifiers to the South Point,” said Hedeman.

Families and friends can enjoy top-shelf entertainment by past NFR Clown of the Year, Cody Sosebee, the Tuff Hedeman Bullfighters and grand pyrotechnics introduction.

Doors will be open at 6:30 p.m. for ticket holders who want to enjoy the pre-event activities surrounding the event, including food, cold beer, shopping and autograph opportunities. The show itself will start at 7:30 p.m.

Tickets are on sale now at Tuff Hedeman Bull Riding Tour website or by visiting the South Point Arena website. Tickets are also available in-person at the South Point Box Office, 9777 Las Vegas Blvd South, Las Vegas, NV 89183 or phone 702-797-8055.

Nineteen-year- old Colorado Rookie rides three to win El Paso

Colorado cowboy Colten Fritzlan wins Casa Ford Tuff Hedeman Bull Riding riding on 51 Red Armor - 90.5 points in the Shoot Out round. Photo by Todd Brewer

Casa Ford Tuff Hedeman Bull Riding Tour

Colten Fritzlan won the 2020 Casa Ford Tuff Hedeman Bull Riding title after a perfect 3-for-3 night, capped by a 90.5 trip aboard 51 Red Armor to close out three rounds of intense bull riding in front of a sold-out El Paso County Coliseum.

“Tuff’s bull ridings are legit, you just can’t beat these events, the atmostphere, the crowds, and Tuff does such a good job putting it on with the bulls and it’s all so professional,” said the PRCA rookie bull rider.

Fritzlan, who was scheduled to ride in San Angelo on the same night, was thankful he made the decision to come to El Paso.

“I originally told Tuff I wasn’t sure I could make it and I talked to him again and he told me to let him know when I made a decision and I am really thankful Tuff held my spot,” said Fritzlan.  

It may have been Fritzlan’s second time to compete in El Paso but it was his first wearing Panhandle Rock & Roll Jeans that collected him a bonus check from Panhandle for $2,000.

Crediting the fans and Tuff Hedeman, the nineteen-year-old bull rider from Rifle, Colorado, had this to say about the night, his first Hedeman title win, and the prize package including a check for $16, 275.00.

“When Reid rode it darn sure lit a fire under me to ride that little red bull and I remembered what Tuff told me – keep it simple, keep your hand shut and do your job.”

Fritzlan, a sophomore on the West Texas College rodeo team in Snyder, credits the fans and good advice from Tuff Hedeman for his first major win on the four-time World Champion’s tour.

Twenty-six riders from nine states, Mexico, and Australia made fifteen qualified rides to kick off the fifteenth edition of this legendary bull riding with four cowboys riding two bulls in the sudden death style format. After two hours and three rounds, it was Reid Barker and Colten Fritzlan, who each rode three head to win the lion’s share of the $30,000 prize money.   

“We had about 10 young riders that really impressed me tonight, some that didn’t make the whistle, but their effort and energy was amazing and I look forward to seeing them again,” said Hedeman.  

Matt Palmer, Huron THBRT Champion, wins round 1 in El Paso aboard 14 Red Cloud for 88 points. Photo by Todd Brewer

Mexican bull rider Luis Escobedo, scored 87.5 points in round one on 30 Dirty 30 owned by Messick/Hanson Bucking Bulls

Round One

Brett Custer and Luis Escobedo, the first two riders on the day sheet, jump-started the rowdy fans posting an 84 and 87.5 to get the fans on their feet early. Nine qualified rides later, it was Matt Palmer's 88 on NFR bull 14 Red Cloud (Burruss) that won the round. Behind him was a pair of 87.5’s from Escobedo and Colten Fritzlan, who had the bull 423 Hacksaw Ridge into his hand.

“I knew my first one cause Trey Kimzey had rode him in Hobbs in the Shoot out, and he changed it up tonight he is usually around to the left but tonight he faked left and went right first but we still made it work,” continued Colten.

Reid Barker splits the Semifinal round win with 90.5 on Danny Mason’s 55 Money Maker. Mason’s team won the El Paso Bull Team Challenge.

Tyler Taylor began his night with an 86.5 on 423 Black Silhouette, and Hobbs Shoot Out round qualifier Garrett Jones comfortably rode 617 Thunder for 86 points. Jones who did not have enough bull to challenge the leaderboard, would advance to the semis. Reid Barker also posted 86 on 411 Scrappy.

Denton Fugate with 90.5 points on Hurst’s Rip. Fuguate split the round win and Hurst was second in Bull Team comptition.

Denton Fugate, who flew in just in time to make the opening introductions was 84.5 on Space Cowboy. Daniel Keeping, who earned his first check from Tuff Hedeman as a steer rider in Fort Worth, turned in an 83.5 on a bull not far from home, 322 Primetime owned by Larry Barker Bucking Bulls of Las Cruces.

Semifinals

Nine bull riders advanced to the semifinal round on their ride scores with four drawing back on time ridden. The bulls would slow the scoring down, only allowing four pro cowboys to hear the whistle while still on top.  Disappointing the crown, the first six would buck off with none lasting more than 5 seconds. 

The first bull rider to ride two, the crowd appreciated Denton Fugate’s spectacular 90.5 ride aboard Lyndal Hurst's 6835 Rip.

Garrett Jones would answer Fugate’s ride with an 88, on 191 Big Jake (Rawson) and another leaderboard change.

Barker continued the contagion of qualified rides and would win the round with a 91 on everybody’s favorite bull, 55 Moneymaker from Danny Mason and Sharon Smith Bucking Bulls.

“First time I saw him in Hobbs, I pulled his rope, and I breathed a sigh of relief thinking this good be mine tonight. He had a lot of timing to the right with rhythm after two or three rounds he gave me a big blinker, kicked twice and came back around away from my hand,” said Barker.

Barker was now in the driver’s seat with 177 points on two. Taylor and Escobedo would buck off with Fritzlan, and Palmer left to ride. Fritzlan would steal the lead from Barker with 178.5 on two after a thrilling 90 points on Sledgehammer (Knapp).

“I had seen one video of him and my buddy had been on him at a PBR, knew I wanted him and could win some money on him,” said Fritzlan about his second out.

Huron Champion and El Paso feature rider Matt Palmer was the last out who could bump Jones from advancing, but Richardson’s Lil Willard beat him out of the chute gate at 1.58 seconds.   

Shoot Out

Four riders now 2-for-2 on the night advanced and huddled behind the chutes with Hedeman to select their opponents.  Fritzlan, the leader with 178.5 on two, had the first pick, and on the advice of Hedeman, he chose 51 Red Armor (Burruss).

“Tuff and I looked at the list and Garrett had shown me a video, Tuff said I would pick this little red bull, he fits you,” added Colten.  

Reid Barker on Barney Fife for 86.5 points in the Shoot Out round

Barker was up next he wasted no time taking Barney Fife to attempt the win.

Denton Fugate on High Hopes in the Shoot Out round

Fugate selected High Hopes which left Garrett Jones with Western Skies (Burruss).

Garrett was 6.38 second on 455 Western Skies (Burruss), followed by Fugate's 5.58 on 027 High Hopes (Harris). Barker put up 86.5 on 118 Barney Fife (Rawson).

Garrett Jones on Western Skies in the Shoot Out Round

Fritzlan brought the house down with 90.5 points on 51 for his first THBRT title.

“When Reid rode it darn sure lit a fire under me to ride that little red bull and I remembered what Tuff told me – keep it simple, keep your hand shut and do your job,” said Fritzlan.

“I always try to give them the advice to pick the best bull o the I always

Tuff Hedeman Bull Team Challenge

The bull team of brother and sister Danny Mason and Sharon Smith of Mineral Wells, Texas, won the El Paso Bull Team Competition with 281.84 points. According to Mason, the winning team performed as expected with their usual trips. 

Danny Mason’s Black Silhouette - Tyler Taylor

Anchoring the team was 55 Money Maker with Reid Barker’s 90.5 ride score and a bull score of 88. The winning team consisted of two qualified ride scores and one 4.84 second attempt by Lukasey Morris on 3112 Dirty Blonde, who earned an 88.5 bull score, the highest of this trio of buckers. Tyler Taylor was 86.5 on 423 Black Silhouette, and Reid Barker was 90.5 on Money Maker during the semifinal round.

Lukasey Morris on Mason and Smith’s Dirty Blonde

55 Moneymaker, a 2019 PBR Finals bull sired by 77 Scout, is a money earner who developed from the futurity and derby competitions. Lyndal Hurst was second with 279.99 points and two rides from Reid Barker and Denton Fugate.

Scott Burruss and Interstate Treating Inc were third, and Messick/Hanson Bucking Bulls came in fourth place.

Rankest scored bull of the night in the team competition was former PBR World Champion bull rider Owen Washburn's Dust Bender, who posted 91 points on the bull side while bucking Brett Custer off in 1.72 seconds in round two.    

THBRT Bull Team Results

1, Danny Mason/Sharon Smith, Mineral Wells, Tex., 281.84 points, $26,000. 2, Lyndal Hurst, 279.99, $19,500. 3, Burruss/Interstate Treating, Inc., 277.3 pts, $13,000. 4, Messick/Hanson Bucking Bulls, 275.69, $6,500.

Danny Mason and Sharon Smith win El Paso Bull Team Competition worth $26,000. Their team’s cumlative points were 281.84.

El Paso Tuff Hedeman Bull Riding Results

1, Colten Fritzlan, Rifle, CO, 269 pts on three bulls, $14,275.00. 2, Reid Barker, Comfort, TX, 263 pts on 3, $8,725. 3, Denton Fugate, Dixon, MO, 175 on 3, $2,250. 4, Garrett Jones, Devers, Tex., 174 on 3, $2,250.

Approximately 26 bull riders will gather next in Las Vegas, Nevada, at the South Point Tuff Hedeman Bull Riding at the South Point Arena on February 29 for the third stop on the 2020 Tuff Hedeman Bull Riding Tour. Catch all the action live or on-demand at TuffHedemanTV.com

For more information, contact Leigh Ann Schroeder, 940.902.1112, tuffhedemanpr@gmail.com. Follow the THBRT on Facebook Tuff Hedeman, Instagram @TuffHedemanOfficial, and live stream TuffHedemanTV.

El Paso Bull Profile - 53 Wired Up

53 Wired Up

If you are a bull rider competing in the Casa Ford Tuff Hedeman Bull Riding, you might have mixed feelings about seeing your name next to 53 Wired Up on the day sheet. Owned and representing Jeff Harris Bucking Bulls of Rafter J Ranch in Palestine, Texas, this bull has only been ridden twice in his career.

When the five-year-old bull sired by Crosswired and out of a daughter of Holy Moly (Page) is ridden, it is for big scores and even bigger checks.  But don't take our word for it ask two-time NFR contender Boudreaux Campbell who won $26,000 on Wired Up last March at the South Point Tuff Hedeman Las Vegas bull riding.  

“Tuff said this is probably the rankest bull here and if you ride him you will win it, Tuff has never guided me wrong. He got out from under me more than once, but it worked out for the win.”

Described as going hard and left out of the chutes, Campbell said he had to hustle to keep up.

Having watched this bull during his young competition days, Jeff Harris had a gut feeling about this bull the first time he saw him buck at Larry Barker’s Las Cruces bull riding.

“He bucks and looks good doing it – everything you want in a good bull, and he has matured into an outstanding bull,” said Harris.

Wired Up, owned by Jaff Harris Bucking Bulls - Rafter J of Palestine, Texas

Described as a businessman of a bull, Harris says this five-year-old bull is one that that bucks and fades left while gaining speed, but there are no tricks, he just simply outlasts the cowboys, they all say he just feels so good then he bucks you off.

Sired by Crosswired and out of a Holy Moly cow, Wired Up’s highest marked bull scores came in Reno this year when he was 44.5 points for his efforts at a PBR event. Two-time National Finals Rodeo contestant Boudreaux Campbell holds the highest marked ride score, 91.5 points, on him winning the Tuff Hedeman Las Vegas event in 2019.

“I have watched this bull since he was three years old, Larry Barker had him, and I watched him with a rider as a three-year-old. I told him at his event two years ago in Las Cruces that I wanted him when he was ready to sell him, and last year he hauled him to an event. Larry called and said other stock contractors really wanted him, but I had asked for first shot several times, so Larry honored that, and I got him and brought him home from Las Vegas."

Garrett Jones almost rode him for the win in Hobbs last month, but as Harris described, he bucked him off just before the whistle.

Harris, who is known as an ace in selecting stock for the industry’s bull team competitions, is no stranger to the winner's photo at Tuff Hedeman Bull team competitions. Harris is known as a very bull rider-friendly contractor and works hard to find and develop as many good bulls as he can buck with one thing in mind – bulls the cowboys want to get on.

Bull Riders Hoping to Blaze their own paths in El Paso

The 2020 Casa Ford Tuff Hedeman Bull Riding

EL PASO, Texas – Tuff Hedeman announced today the feature riders and public appearance schedule for the fifteenth consecutive annual Casa Ford Tuff Hedeman Bull Riding presented by Sunland Park Racetrack and Casino. For fifteen years in February, four-time World Champion bull rider and ProRodeo Hall of Famer Tuff Hedeman returns to his home town of El Paso to produce the entertainment extravaganza at the El Paso County Coliseum.

With over 30 years in the sport, Hedeman, one of the most recognizable cowboys in the world, has made a name for himself in the production of great bull riding events. Each year he strives to repeat his great legendary event with what he knows the fans want to see, big bull rides followed by high scores. Hedeman announced today several bull riders on the roster that can provide both, but one is coming to El Paso eager to repeat his 2018 win, the other to be the only rider to win the event twice, his brother.

Both hoping to tap into the previous mojo they hope was left on the dirt inside the El Paso County Coliseum, Trey Kimzey and Tyler Bingham, both 2019 contestants at the National Finals Rodeo (NFR) are on their way to El Paso.  Trey, younger brother of two-time El Paso Tuff Hedeman Champion and the reigning and six-time PRCA World Champion Sage Kimzey, won the THBRT season opener in Hobbs two weeks ago and is looking to add a second THBRT title and check to his name. 2019, his first year as a professional, Trey earned $124,929.60, nine rodeo titles including the PRCA Resistol Rookie of the Year title. Twenty-one year old Kimzey makes his home in Strong City, Oklahoma and is the son of former NFR barrelman Ted Kimzey.

PRCA Rookie of the Year hoping to extend his THBRT winning streak capturing the El Paso championship title that his 6-time World Champion brother first won in 2014. Kimzey will be at Casa Ford signing autographs from 3 pm - 5 pm on Friday and Whataburger from 6 - 8 pm (details below)

Tyler Bingham of Honeyville, Utah currently ranked as the No. 4 bull rider in the Pro Rodeo World Standings, is the younger brother of two-time NFR contestant Tim Bingham. Still, more importantly, Tyler is the 2018 THBRT Casa Ford champion looking to be the second rider in history to win the event twice.  Tyler is no stranger to the top of bull riding standings and stats. A former National High School (2011) Champion, College National Finals Bull Riding Champion, (2013), and the 2018 Tuff Hedeman El Paso Champion, Tyler finished the NFR in fourth place and total earnings for the year of $246,399.

NFR qualifier and the No. 4 ranked bull rider in the 2019 PRCA World Standings is back in El Paso to win a second El Paso Championship. Bingham was the 2018 El Paso Tuff Hedeman Bull Riding Champ.

J.T. Moore of Alvin, Texas is currently the number three ranked bull rider of the PRCA and the 2019 Hobbs event champion on Hedeman’s Tour will also be in El Paso.  

The No. 3 ranked cowboy in the PRCA World Standings for 2020, J.T. Moore of Alvin, Texas is headed to ELP for his second appearance.

Hedeman announced the addition of Mexico’s celebrated bull rider, Ricardo Gonzalez, from Chihuahua, Chihuahua Mexico to the competition. "Tiger," Ricardo will be trying to capitalize on the hometown energy provided by the fans while in El Paso. Ricardo will be signing autographs on Wednesday, February 5 at Casa Ford from 3 pm to 5 pm, 5815 Montana; Thursday, February 6 from 3 pm – 5 at TFCS 1656 N. Resler Dr., 79912 and on Friday at TFCU, 12020 Rojas, 79936 at 3 pm to 5 pm.

Ricardo “Tiger” Gonzales will be signing autographs around El Paso beginning Wednesday at Casa Ford from 3 - 5 pm.

Hedeman’s homecoming is a dynamic one night only performance of the top-ranked bull riders currently riding on the pro circuits. Twenty-eight cowboy athletes are set to ride at the El Paso County Coliseum on Saturday, February 8, at the annual Casa Ford Tuff Hedeman Bull Riding presented by Sunland Park Racetrack & Casino.

Hedeman’s annual homecoming festivities will begin with the Tailgate Down Party featuring the Brian Mars Band at 5:30; Doors open at 6:30 with the Stick bull riding for boys and girls six years old and under and bull riding action gets underway at 8:00 pm Fans are encouraged to get their tickets now as the show is expected to be a sell-out.

Bull riding fans will have only one opportunity to see these extraordinary cowboy athletes who set records at all levels of competition, including the PRCA, PBR, and National Finals Rodeo contenders.  This year’s event is the second stop on Hedeman’s tour pitting the industry’s elite riders against the best bulls in a three-round sudden death style action.

Come early and enjoy the “Tailgate Down” pre-party with live music from The Brian Mars Band, along with great food, cold beer, shopping, and autograph opportunities featuring the Championship Bull Riding Bullfighters.

Hedeman’s tour has become known for 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 superstar 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 Ticketmaster.com and the El Paso County Coliseum.  

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

Event Location: El Paso County Coliseum 4100 E Paisano, El Paso, TX 79905 (915) 534-432                      

Tuff Hedeman and Bull Riders El Paso Public Appearance Schedule

Wednesday 2/5                             

 3–5 pm Casa Ford     Bull Rider - Ricardo Gonzalez, 5815 Montana, 79925

Thursday   2/6                 

 3–5 pm TFCU BRANCH   Bull Rider -Ricardo Gonzalez, 1556 N. Resler, 79912

3–5 pm CASA FORD    Tuff Hedeman, 5815 Montana, 79925

Friday 2/7                                        

 3–5 pm CASA Ford      Trey Kimzey, 5815 Montana, 79925

 3–5 pm Cavenders      Tuff Hedeman/Bull Riders,  Fountains at Farah Shopping Center

 3–5 pm TFCU           Mexican Bull Rider -Ricardo Gonzalez, 12020 Rojas, 79936

6–8 pm Whataburger      Tuff Hedeman, Trey Kimzey, Ricardo Gonzalez, 12140 Montwood,79936

Saturday, 2/8

5:00 PM                 Tailgate Down party, El Paso County Coliseum Parking Lot

6:15 PM                 Stick Bull Riding, El Paso County Coliseum              

6:30 PM                 Gates OPEN to public     

8:00 PM                 Tuff Hedeman Bull Riding         9:30 PM                 AFTER PARTY- Whiskey Dicks, 1580 George Dieter Dr # 204, (79936)

South Point kicks off another year of bull riding in Las Vegas

2019 South Point Tuff Hedeman Bull Riding Champion Boudreaux Campbell

The South Point Tuff Hedeman Bull Riding Championship was the Crockett, Texas cowboy’s first win on Tuff’s Tour. Campbell, a two-time NFR qualifier and 2017 PRCA Rookie of the Year hit the jackpot worth $26,000 which included a $2,000 bonus from Rock and Roll Denim for earning the win in their jeans.

Top bull riders and bulls will compete for one night in Las Vegas for a $80,000 prize purse on Saturday, February 29th

Tweet It: Join the @SouthPointLV family in welcoming the #TuffHedeman bull riders back into the arena, all battling for a purse of $80,000. Purchase tickets now

LAS VEGAS – Founder and four-time world champion bull rider Tuff Hedeman has announced that the Tuff Hedeman Bull Riding, presented by Boot Barn and Discount Tire, will be held another year at the South Point Arena and Equestrian Center on Saturday, Feb. 29 at 7:00 p.m.

Featuring Hedeman’s signature style event 24 of the world’s best bull riders will compete in an invitation-only, exciting three-round competition. Tickets are on sale now, starting at $30 and can be purchased here.

The two-hour show will be filled with excitement featuring a star-studded lineup of world-class bulls pitted against champions and the hottest bull riders on tour. This three-round competition will feature sudden death format and bring in fans from all over to watch and experience the best of the best compete. As the competition is invitation only to contestants, the event will feature 24 of the top bull riders in the world.

NFR qualifier Clayton Sellars won the Semifinal round of the 2019 South Point THBR with 87 points aboard Break the Chain, owned by JQH Bucking Bulls, Amarillo, Texas.

Included in both the ProRodeo Hall of Fame and Bull Riding Hall of Fame, Tuff Hedeman brings this wild and action-packed event back to fabulous Las Vegas one night to bring cowboys and cowgirls alike.

The show will bring in familiar faces from the National Finals Rodeo. If you missed out on your chance to attend the National Finals Rodeo, take this opportunity to watch world class bull riders, at South Point Arena.

“I look forward every year to providing the Las Vegas fans and visitors with a top-rated bull riding competition and a great entertainment line-up, we always bring a few World Champions and National Finals Rodeo qualifiers to the South Point,” said Hedeman.

PRCA Clown of the Year and NFR Barrelman Code Sosebee joins Hedeman on the dirt entertaining the fans and roaming the crowd with giveaways.

“I am thankful I get to work on producing a clean family comedy show intertwined with one of the most traditional sports in America, my teachers said I would never make it being a clown - but I’m proving them wrong.” - - Code Sosebee

Guests can enjoy top-shelf entertainment by past NFR Clown of the Year, Cody Sosebee, the Tuff Hedeman Bullfighters and grand pyrotechnics introduction. Doors open at 6 p.m. for ticket holders to enjoy the pre-event activities surrounding the event, including food, cold beer, shopping and autograph opportunities. The show itself will start at 7 p.m.

Tickets are on sale now at Tuff Hedeman Bull Riding Tour website or by visiting the South Point Arena website. Tickets are also available in-person at the South Point Box Office, 9777 Las Vegas Blvd South, Las Vegas, NV 89183 or phone 702-797-8055. Coupons for $5 off tickets will be available at Las Vegas’ two Boot Barn locations and 24 Discount Tire locations.

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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 has three sons, Lane, Trevor, and Ryker and currently makes his home near Morgan Mill, Texas.

About South Point Hotel, Casino & Spa Featuring more than 2,100 guestrooms, South Point Hotel, Casino & Spa overlooks the famous Las Vegas Strip and the serenity of the surrounding mountainscape. Each oversized guest room features state-of-the-art LED televisions as well as WiFi with high-speed internet connections. Guests visiting South Point will experience affordable luxury through a casino offering top-of-the-line gaming technology, more than 60 table games and a separate race and sports book area, 11 restaurants, including the award-winning Michael’s Gourmet Room, the world-class Costa Del Sur Spa and Salon, a 400-seat showroom featuring headliner entertainment, a 700-seat Bingo room, a 16-screen Cinemark movie complex, a state-of-the-art 64-lane bowling center, a 52,000-square foot Conference Center and an 80,000-square foot Exhibit Hall. South Point Hotel is also home to the Tournament Bowling Plaza, a multi-million dollar professional bowling tournament facility. In addition, South Point has the finest equestrian event facility in the country. The event space features three climate-controlled arenas, vet clinic, feed store, more than 1,200 climate-controlled stalls and plays host to some of the country’s most unique events. South Point Hotel, Casino & Spa is at 9777 Las Vegas Blvd. South, Las Vegas, NV 89183. For more information or for room reservations, call (702) 796-7111 or visit the South Point Hotel, Casino & Spa website. Connect with South Point on Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, and Instagram. South Point Hotel Media Contact Kirvin Doak Communications southpointpr@kirvindoak.com (702) 737-3100 Lynne Ravenscraft, Director of Marketing RavenscraftL@southpointcasino.com Tuff Hedeman Bull Riding Media Contact Leigh Ann Schroeder, tuffhedemanpr@gmail.com 940.902.1112