Bossier City Appearance Schedule Announced

Meet Tuff and Greet the Cowboys as the Tuff Hedeman Bull Riding Tour Arrives in Bossier

 

SHREVEPORT - The Tuff Hedeman Bull Riding Tour (THBRT), one of the fastest-growing extreme sports tours today, announces multiple opportunities for bull riding, country music, and rodeo fans to meet Tuff Hedeman and greet the cowboys as they arrive in the ArkLaTex for the Eldorado Resort Casino Shreveport Tuff Hedeman Bull Riding presented by Landers Dodge Chrysler Jeep Ram.

From world standings superstars and irreplaceable legends to the hottest new bull riders climbing the ranks, Tuff Hedeman invites them all and now he is inviting you to join him and snap a selfie, gather autographs, and not only meet but spend time greeting several of the biggest stars in the industry including local country music artist Cody Cooke.

Tuff and the cowboys arrive in Shreveport this week and begin appearances around town including stops at the Eldorado’s Celebrity Lounge on Friday from 5 pm to 7 pm. National Finals Rodeo qualifier Cody Rostockyj and last year’s Bossier bull riding champion, Tyler Taylor of Stephenville, Texas will be outside the Celebrity Lounge with the THBRT crew including the THBRT bullfighters and celebrity chute reporter Ali Dee.

Cavenders in Bossier 

Saturday

11 am - 1 pm 

Saturday 11:00-1:00 join Tuff and the bull riders at Cavender’s at 2340 Airline Drive, Bossier City.  If you can’t make it out and about that early, Tuff and the boys will be signing and assisting ticket giveaways on the radio starting at 1:30 pm to 3 pm at Landers Dodge Chrysler Jeep Ram at2701 Benton Road, Bossier City.

Cole Skender - Hamburg, Arkansas

Two Louisiana native World Champions, Josh Barentine and Cole Echols and a rising young Arkansas star Cole Skender have been selected to compete for $30,000 alongside 24 top-ranked bull riders as the pioneer behind the sport of professional bull riding, returns to North Louisiana with his signature style newly titled Tuff Hedeman Bull Riding Tour.

Landers Bossier

Saturday

1:30 - 3 pm

The annual Eldorado Resort Casino Shreveport Tuff Hedeman Bull Riding (THBRT) presented by Landers Dodge Chrysler Jeep Ram comes to Bossier on Saturday night, March 17, at the Century Link Center in Bossier at 8 pm with two-hours of action-packed invitation only bull riding followed by special guest country music artists Cody Cook and the Bayou Outlaws playing in concert with their brand of southern country rock.

Hedeman, a four-time World Champion and pro rodeo Hall of Famer, has been producing events for over 25 years and his annual trip to Bossier will once again keep fans and the World Champion athletes on the edge of their seats with what he knows the fans want to see – great bull rides and high scores.

In addition to a star-studded competitor lineup, THBRT has recruited some of the industry’s leading entertainment and personnel, including 2017 NFR Barrel man Cody Sosebee, who will be signing autographs with the THBR bullfighters on the concourse at 7 pm prior to the event. 

OPPORTUNITIES FOR KIDS

To Enter email stickbullrider@aol.com

Kids six and under can enter the Stick Bull Riding competition for a chance to win a Tuff Hedeman buckle, email stickbullrider@aol.com to enter and receive details. The competition is held prior to the bull riding.

Bossier will be the fourth stop on the Tuff Hedeman Bull Riding Tour in 2018. The competition in Bossier follows previous events held in Hobbs, New Mexico, El Paso, and Las Vegas where bull riders earned points towards a World Finals bonus and World title.

Cody Rostockyj 

Friday, March 16 , 2018 - 5 pm – 7 pm

Meet Tuff Hedeman and cowboys at the Eldorado Resort Casino Shreveport at the Celebrity Lounge. 451 Clyde Fant Pkwy, Shreveport, LA 71101

Saturday, March 17 - 11 am to 1 pm       

Meet Tuff Hedeman and cowboys at Cavender’s and enter to win free merchandise. 2340 Airline Dr, Bossier City, LA 71111

1:30 pm to 3:30

Meet Tuff Hedeman and cowboys at Landers Dodge Chrysler Jeep Ram to enter to win free tickets.  2701 Benton Rd, Bossier City, LA 71111

6:30 pm

Doors Open at the Century Link Center and Tuff Hedeman Merchandise Booth opens

7:00 pm

Bullfighters and barrel man Cody Sosbee will be signing autographs on the concourse

8:00 pm

Eldorado Resort Shreveport Tuff Hedeman Bull Riding presented by Landers                              Dodge Chrysler Jeep Ram

10:00 pm   

Autograph session immediately following the event on the floor of the Century Link Center       

Tickets for the Eldorado Resort Casino Shreveport Tuff Hedeman Bull Riding tickets start at just $25 and provide fans with multiple ticket options for individuals and families. Tickets are available at bit.ly/tuffbossier and at the Century Link Center box office.

Follow Tuff Hedeman on Facebook and Instagram @TuffHedemanOfficial.

TICKETS: Link to Tickets or Box Office at CenturyLink Center, 2000 CenturyLink Dr, Bossier City, LA 71112 (318) 747-2501, or Box Office at Barksdale Air Force Base, Barksdale Website.

Hedeman Taps Three Louisiana Natives for Tour Stop in Bossier

Eldorado Resort Casino Shreveport Tuff Hedeman Championship Bull Riding presented by Landers Dodge Chrysler Jeep Ram

SHREVEPORT - Two Louisiana native World Champions, Josh Barentine and Cole Echols and one rising young star, Koby Radley have been selected to compete for $30,000 alongside 24 top-ranked bull riders as the pioneer behind the sport of professional bull riding, returns to North Louisiana with his signature style newly titled Tuff Hedeman Bull Riding Tour.

The annual Eldorado Resort Casino Shreveport Tuff Hedeman Bull Riding (THBRT) presented by Landers Dodge Chrysler Jeep Ram comes to Bossier on March 17, at the Century Link Center in Bossier at 8 pm with two-hours of action-packed invitation only bull riding followed by special guest country music artists Cody Cook and the Bayou Outlaws playing in concert with their brand of southern country rock.

Hedeman, a four-time World Champion and pro rodeo Hall of Famer, has been producing events for over 25 years is known for keeping the fans and the World Champion athletes on the edge of their seats as he promises what he knows the fans want to see – great bull rides and high scores.

Hedeman has selected several natives including rising star Koby Radley of Montpelier, Louisiana, who is knocking on the door of the top ranking, to compete against the 24 nationally ranked riders and world-class bucking bulls. Hedeman comes to Bossier for a one night only performance that includes a roster of World Champions and National Finals Rodeo (NFR) athletes to compete for the championship title.

“I have either been competing or producing bull riding events for the Shreveport Bossier fans for over 15 years, and we have enjoyed an amazing partnership throughout the years with our friends at the Eldorado and we look forward every year to providing the Shreveport and Bossier communities with a top rated bull riding and some great entertainment,” said Tuff Hedeman.

In addition to a star-studded competitor lineup, THBRT has recruited some of the industry’s leading entertainment and personnel, including 2017 NFR Barrel man Cody Sosebee, who will roam the crowd giving away merchandise and providing his own style of comic relief. 

Kids six and under can enter the Stick Bull Riding competition for a chance to win a Tuff Hedeman buckle, email stickbullrider@aol.com to enter and receive details. The competition is held prior to the bull riding.

The THBRT Bullfighters will be saving cowboy lives on the dirt and will sign autographs prior to the bull riding at the Tuff Hedeman Merchandise booth located on the concourse.

The Tuff Hedeman Bull Riding event pits man versus bull in a two-hour long bull riding competition that promises to captivate and entertain fans. Throughout the event, 24 bull riders and approximately 40 bulls will compete in a three-round tournament-style sudden death format that keeps fans on the edge of their seat as their favorite riders challenge up to three bulls in one performance. The event concludes in a final four-man round where the competitor must ride to win the lion's share of the prize money.

Bossier will be the fourth stop on the Tuff Hedeman Bull Riding Tour in 2018. The competition in Bossier follows previous events held in Hobbs, New Mexico, El Paso, and Las Vegas where bull riders earned points towards a World Finals bonus and World title. The roster of competitors will be released at a later date.

Tuff and the bull riders will be in town to meet fans, take selfies, and sign autographs beginning Friday, March 16.

THBRT Appearance Schedule:

Friday, March 16 , 2018 - 5 pm – 7 pm

Meet Tuff Hedeman and cowboys at the Eldorado Resort Casino Shreveport at the Celebrity Lounge. 451 Clyde Fant Pkwy, Shreveport, LA 71101

Saturday, March 17 - 11 am to 1 pm       

Meet Tuff Hedeman and cowboys at Cavender’s and enter to win free merchandise. 2340 Airline Dr, Bossier City, LA 71111

1:30 pm to 3:30

Meet Tuff Hedeman and cowboys at Landers Dodge Chrysler Jeep Ram to enter to win free tickets.  2701 Benton Rd, Bossier City, LA 71111

6:30 pm

Doors Open at the Century Link Center and Tuff Hedeman Merchandise Booth opens

7:00 pm

Bullfighters and barrel man Cody Sosbee will be signing autographs on the concourse

8:00 pm

Eldorado Resort Shreveport Tuff Hedeman Bull Riding presented by Landers                              Dodge Chrysler Jeep Ram

10:00 pm   

Autograph session immediately following the event on the floor of the Century Link Center       

Tickets for the Eldorado Resort Casino Shreveport Tuff Hedeman Bull Riding tickets start at just $25 and provide fans with multiple ticket options for individuals and families. Tickets are available at Ticketmaster, www.tuffhedemanbullriding.com and at the Century Link Center box office.

Follow Tuff Hedeman on Facebook and Instagram @TuffHedemanOfficial.

TICKETS: Link to Tickets or Box Office at CenturyLink Center, 2000 CenturyLink Dr, Bossier City, LA 71112 (318) 747-2501, or Box Office at Barksdale Air Force Base, Barksdale Website.

National Wrestling Champion Wins 2018 Las Vegas Tuff Hedeman Bull Riding Tour at the South Point Arena and Equestrian Center

LAS VEGAS – Four-time World Champion and Pro Rodeo Hall of Famer Tuff Hedeman escorted 28 bull riders onto the dirt in front of the capacity crowd at the South Point Hotel Arena and Equestrian Center where Ruger Piva, a former Intercollegiate Wrestling Champion, was the only athlete to ride three bulls and win the Las Vegas Tuff Hedeman Bull Riding Tour.

“Try hard and never quit,” were Hedeman’s words to Piva before he nodded his head to win the annual bull riding event during the Las Vegas Ultimate Sports Weekend.

It didn’t take long for Ruger Piva of Challis Idaho to get in sync with the Tuff Hedeman Bull Riding Tour. Making his first appearance on the THBRT dirt, Piva grabbed the third title of the 2018 THBRT season.

“I wanted to be here because there is a lot of money to be won and a lot of really, really good bulls to get on and it’s sure an honor to stand in the same arena as Tuff Hedeman,” said Piva after the win.

Sixteen qualified rides and entertainer J.J Harrison kept the enthusiastic crowd on their feet for two hours watching top-ranked bull riders including 7 time World Champion Sage Kimzey, PBR World Champion Mike Lee, NFR qualifiers Cody Rostockyj, Parker Breding, Joe Frost, and Indian National Bull Riding Champions Tustin Daye and Cody Jesus.

Until tonight only the former National Wrestling champion’s 182-12 wrestling record appeared on Google next to his name, but after winning the THBRT title in Las Vegas, no doubt that will change.

Piva began his rodeo career at 9 years old with his Uncle Johnny as his coach, but claims he really never took it seriously until he was in his 20’s and decided he was ready to move on from his wrestling career after a trophy room full of wrestling awards revealed his obviously superior athletic ability.

The 5’7, 155-pound athlete finished in the top 15 his junior year at the National High School Finals Rodeo. He continued to rodeo alongside wrestling in college at Montana Western, qualifying for the College National Final Rodeo in 2015-16 where he placed third in 2016.

 “Honestly, I do not focus on what anybody else is doing but myself,” Piva said. “I don’t worry. Those guys do what they’re going to do. I’m cheering for everybody here said Piva after accepting the $19,750.00 jumbo check from Tuff Hedeman.

 Round One

With 11 qualified rides from 28 riders, the Navajo Nation was well represented with Cody Jesus winning the round with 89.5 points on Mike Rawson’s Louisville Slugger. Travis Briscoe, last year’s winner at the South Point posted the second highest round score of 89 on 12- Holy Mullah from GT Bucking Bulls. Making the most of his THBRT debut was 2014 Texas High School Rodeo Champion Brody Yeary who placed third in the round with 89 points on 277 Dirty Little Secret (Rafter B/Rockin C/Harris).

Koby Radley, Parker Breding, and Tyler Bingham turned in 88 point rides to advance followed by Tustin Daye, Matt Palmer, Eli Vastbinder, Demond Haynes who made the whistle and advanced. Rounding out the final position on the day sheet was Ruger Piva with 84.5 points.

“Never seeing any of the bulls tonight, my first bull went the opposite way from what the stock contractor said, but I try to just react,” said Piva of his first matchup which set him up to advance to round two.

“I have been on a hot streak and riding well, I just tried not to think about it and just react,” added Piva.  

Semifinal Round  

In the second round, the Bulls shut down the celebrations from the cowboys allowing only 4 qualified rides in the Semifinal Round action. Fresh off his victory in El Paso, Tyler Bingham scored 90.5 on Roll the Dice (Barrett/Willis) in front of the capacity crowd at the South Point Arena to win the Semifinal Round and advance to the four-man Shoot Out with an average score of 178.5 on two bulls. Cody Jesus was 87.5 on Cadillac Jack (Danley) and 177 on two and now headed into the finals with fellow Navajo Champion rider Tustin Daye who was 86 points on 101 Grafitti (Rawson).  Piva got the job done on a young bull named Lone Shark (JQH) and gathered 86.5 points that advanced him to the final position of the Shoot Out round with 171 on two.

“Being the last guy out in the first round, I was in a hurry to get my rope on him and the bulls really progress round by round at these three round events, I was happy just to hear the whistle and get the score,” continued Piva.       

Shoot Out Round

 Piva may have had no choice in the final matchup but he did not let that deter his desire to win. As the first rider up in the Shoot Out he was evenly matched with 463 Red Rocker (Whisnant/Shaw) where Piva stayed loose and posted the first score of 89.5 riding the big red bull into his hand.  

Tustin Daye was up next and received a re-ride option from Hedeman which he selected but bucked off both draws.

Cody Jesus was matched with 67B Bumble Bee (Whisnant/Shaw). The bull known as “stinger” in the back pens, went left and as he made the corner Cody got tilted over the front of the bull - too far to recover and bucked off.

Bingham with a chance to win his second consecutive THBRT event selected 487 Jake Brake from Jeff Harris’s pen of buckers. 487 went two jumps then made a hard left and Bingham lost the battle at 4 seconds with the bull that was bucking away from his riding hand.

Piva, the only rider to survive Hedeman’s Shoot Out Round wins the sudden death format and the check for $19,750, a Resistol hat, and a custom engraved trophy buckle with the pioneer of the sport of bull riding’s name engraved next to his which he says is the most exciting part.

“I used to worry and over think it and you either get bucked off or you ride, you either make money or you don’t,” said Piva as he thanked the Las Vegas fans who cheered him on and finally got Tuff Hedeman’s autograph – on a check.

 Invitational Bull Team Competition

Mike Rawson Bucking Bulls finished first in the 12 team, 100 percent payback invitational THBRT bull team competition. Rawson collected his check with 285 points and three qualified rides. Bucking two veteran bulls and one newbie in Las Vegas, Rawson accepted the $24,000 from Hedeman and was proud of his team. 

“I was really impressed with my older bull 9100 Kojack,” said Rawson who watched the 9-year-old storied bucking bull assist Radley to 88 points in round one. 9100 Kojack, sired by Carrillo Cartel is a staple on the day sheet for Rawson’s team bulls.

“He is one that the bull riders want to see their name by every time, he is a bull riders’ bull and you can be 86 to 90 on him every time,” said Rawson.

Cody Jesus won round one on Rawson’s Louisville Slugger with an impressive 90.5 points. Bucking in the third position for Rawson was a new bull 101 Graffiti making his bull team THBRT debut with an 88 point ride from Tustin Daye in the Semifinals.

Second place was last week’s winner Jeff Harris who earned $18,000 with one qualified ride and two rank scores for his Rafter B – Rockin C Team. Harris bucked 277 Dirty Little Secret (B. Yeary, 88 pts), 201 Speckled Bird, and 31 Rising Sun.  Third place was Danley Bucking Bulls, $12,000, followed by GT Bucking bulls in fourth place earning $4,000.   

 Las Vegas THBRT Results

1, Ruger Piva, Challis, Idaho, 260.5 points on 3 bulls, $19,750. 2, Tyler Bingham, Honeyville, Utah, 178 pts, $2,250. 3, Cody Jesus, Sawmill, Arizona, 177 pts, $2,250. 4, Tustin Daye, Lupton, Arizona, 173.5, $2,250.

Las Vegas THBRT Bull Team Results

1, Mike Rawson, Martinsville, Texas, 284 points, $24,000. 2, Rafter B/Rocking C/Harris, Palestine, Texas, 283.51, $18,000.3, Danley Bucking Bulls, Roswell, NM, 281.0 pts, $12,000. 4, GT (Garrett/Thompson) Bucking Bulls, Oklahoma, 280.47, $6,000.

Tuff Hedeman returned to the South Point with his signature event, newly titled the “Tuff Hedeman Bull Riding Tour.” Top-ranked bull riders and bulls competed for one night only as four-time World Champion and Pro Rodeo Hall of Famer, Tuff Hedeman, lined up the roster of World Champions and Wrangler National Finals Rodeo athletes to compete for the championship title.

“I have either been competing or producing bull riding events for Las Vegas and rodeo fans for over 25 years, and I look forward every year to providing the community with a top-rated bull riding competition and some great entertainment,” said Tuff Hedeman. “It is amazing to see Las Vegas being recognized as the sports destination that we have always seen it to be, and it was an honor to be here and bring our event back alongside NASCAR, USA Sevens Rugby, Vegas Golden Knights and UFC. It was an amazing sport filled weekend.”

Las Vegas was the third stop on the Tuff Hedeman Bull Riding Tour in 2018. The competition in Las Vegas followed previous events held in Hobbs, New Mexico and El Paso, Texas where bull riders earned points towards a World Finals bonus and World title.

Next stop on the THBRT is Bossier City, Louisiana on March 17 at the CenturyLink Center Arena. Doors will open at 6:30 p.m. and the competition will get underway at 8:00 p.m. Tickets are available at www.tuffhedemanbullriding.com. Follow Tuff Hedeman on Facebook and Instagram @TuffHedemanOfficial. Schedule, roster of competitors and appearances will be released at a later date.

Tyler Bingham Hangs On to win Casa Ford Tuff Hedeman Bull Riding

Tyler Bingham Hangs On to win Casa Ford Tuff Hedeman Bull Riding

EL PASO, Texas – February 25, 2018 – Tuff Hedeman returned to his hometown to celebrate the 75th Anniversary of the El Paso County Coliseum with his signature style two hour action packed invitational bull riding which kept fans and the World Champion athletes on the edge of their seats as the four time World Champion and pro rodeo Hall of Famer delivered on his local promise of bringing what he knows the fans want to see – great bull rides and high scores. 

At the end of the night in El Paso it was two Utah cowboy bull riding brothers, Tim and Tyler Bingham who battled it out for the win and in the driver’s seat was Tyler Bingham, who had the fans ecstatic as he literally hung on to the side of 169 Crimson King (Melton Bull Co) in the final Shoot Out round and took home the bulk of the $30,000 prize money, a new pair of Lucchese boots, a Resistol western hat and a title no other bull rider will ever have, the first champion of the Tuff Hedeman Bull Riding Tour.

“It wasn’t pretty but I just didn’t let go, I could hear the fans who are so awesome here and they obviously love watching good – no great bull riding,” said the younger of the bull riding Bingham’s.

Hedeman who characterized Bingham as resilient had this to say about the cowboy who competed in San Antonio at 2 pm and then hopped a flight with five other bull riders to El Paso to compete in the Casa Ford Tuff Hedeman Bull Riding presented by Sunland Park Racetrack and Casino. 

“You are not going to come to these events and win unless you are a major league caliber athlete, 90 percent of the riders in his position tonight would have gotten a zero,” added Hedeman.

There are no guarantees in bull riding and Tyler Bingham earned the annual bull riding event title riding three bulls against the 29 man field of “invitation only” bull riders.

The Format

Throughout the event, bull riders and bulls went head to head in the three-round tournament-style sudden death format worth a total of $95,000 to the riders and the bulls entered in the “invitation only” event designed by Hedeman to enhance fan experience. The format allows them to see their favorite rider challenge as many as three bulls in one night and the enthusiastic standing room only crowd witnessed 21 qualified rides from 29 top ranked invited bull riders.  

“In this format you don’t accidently win the event, you have to be at your best, you have to earn it, round by round and here in El Paso the knowledgeable fans appreciate that,” said Hedeman following the performance.

Round One

Four 90 points plus rides would define the first round and set the pace for the bull riding as past Navajo champion rider Tustin Daye took the round win with 90.5 points on 510 Blame it on the Whiskey (JQH). The first bull rider out, four time PRCA World Champion J.W. Harris, set the pace at 87 points on cowboy favorite 59 Boomer flanked by Mike White for Harmon’s Elite Bucking Bulls. He was followed by qualified rides from Brett Custer, Trey Kimzey, Josh Barentine and Tyler Bingham’s first bull 3381 Wet Willy (Barker/Barnett).

“I was excited to have a rematch on Wet Willy, and he is small and has perfect timing, right into my hand in the gate, I have always like him and went 90 again on him tonight, I like the looks of him, he’s small but muscular and suits me,” said Bingham.

Two sets of bull riding brothers, all from Utah, were on the day sheet including NFR cowboy Joe Frost of Randlett who scored 90 on 26Y Savage Moves (Whisnant/Shaw). World Champion Mike Lee made the whistle with an 88 on C735 Jack Tar (JQH) as did Cody Rostockyj who made the gutsy decision to keep his 82.5 and declined the reride opportunity Hedeman offered. Rostockyj waited out the last section and his decision proved prudent as the score eventually advanced him to round two.

Appearing in his first professional event was 18 year old Cole Skender of Hamburg, Arkansas who scored the first 90 of the night which rang the Whataburger bell for free Breakfast on A Bun for all in attendance at the sold out El Paso County Coliseum.

“Cole impressed me tonight as he came to his first event. He’s the kind of guy that wants to ride all day every day and that’s what it takes,” said Hedeman who enjoys the mentoring of talented young athletes. 

Semifinal Round

The Semifinal Round 12 man round got underway after a few extremely entertaining Cody Sosebee moments and a Casa Ford tee shirt throw, with 9 of the 12 hearing the whistle. The eldest Bingham, Tim, won the round with 91.5 points on 626 Karaoke (Harmon’s Elite). J.W. Harris made his case for advancing to the final four man with 90.5 points on 20 Cadillac Jack (Danley).  Fighting hard to survive were Joe Frost, Cody Rostockyj, and 18 year old Brett Custer. Tyler safely turned in 89 points on 210 Chaos Ghost (Scott Winston/Melton Bull Co).

“When I saw the draw earlier in the day, I told myself if I rode Wet Willy that would set me perfect for Chaos Ghost who I have always wanted to draw. I saw a video of him with Kimzey going 92 or something on him and have always wanted him since then. He felt good, a little push back action like the other guys had told me, but I thought he was awesome,” said Bingham. “Hang on” was the only instructions from veteran bull rider turned stock contractor Cory Melton added Bingham.

Shoot Out Round

With seven riders with two scores from the first two rounds, a minimum of 177.5 total points on two bulls was required to advance to the Shoot Out round where it could have had a four for four outcome with the riders and the bulls were what he referred to as legitimate athletes.

 The rookies and young guns had ridden well in the first two rounds but the shootout round included three veteran NFR bull riders who advanced to the four-man.  Three Utah cowboys were on fire tonight as they advanced with Texan J.W. Harris to the final round. Tim Bingham led the average and earned the right to select first setting up the battle of the Bingham boys he selected 12B Hellfire. Tyler picked next and he had this to say about his selection for the championship round.

 “I was going to pick the bull Joe Frost got on, but then after consulting with Tuff he thought I could be more points on Crimson King, but he would be harder to ride, so I listened and changed my mind and took 169 on Tuff’s advice. He was into my hand, boxy and I just hung on and I had terrible form,” laughed the newly crowned El Paso Champion.

                  J.W. Harris selected a new young bull 67B Bumble Bee (Whisnant/Shaw) who was lightning fast with increased strength and speed at every rotation and eventually took the power away from the World Champ at 4.07 seconds.

Next up was cowboy favorite Joe Frost who took 201 Harris’s Speckled Bird (Harris). In the end it was Tyler’s ride on 169 Crimson King who had gritted it hanging off the side and willing himself back to the center of the bull to make the whistle and score 86.5 points.  It was not a pretty finish as Hedeman said to the crowd presenting the check to the youngest Bingham, but he got the job done and that’s what bull riding is all about.

“Only one person can be the first winner of the first Tuff Hedeman Bull Riding Tour and that is really incredible, it is one title I can say I have over Sage Kimzey, laughed Bingham about his friend 4 time World Champion Sage Kimzey. Bingham riding on invitation from Tuff Hedeman is currently one of the top 15 ranked cowboys in the PRCA.

Protecting the bull riding athletes were the bullfighters, the cowboy lifesavers, Bryce Redo and Beau Schueth who took the hits while they distracted the bucking beasts to allow the bull rider to safely escape. National Finals Rodeo entertainer funnyman Cody Sosebee returned to El Paso roaming the crowd, keeping them laughing and sparring with announcer and production manager Chris Rankin while giving away merchandise and prizes to unexpected ticketholders.

The Tuff Hedeman Bull Riding is the highlight event that pits man verses bull in a two-hour long bull riding competition that promises to captivated and entertain fans.

“I have either been competing or producing bull ridings for the friends and people of El Paso for over 25 years, it’s an honor to bring it back in February and be part of such an awesome weekend in the town I call home, this year’s event exceeded my expectations” said Hedeman.

Shoot Out Round

1, Tyler Bingham, Honeyville, Utah, 86.5 on Crimson King

Final Results

1, Tyler Bingham, Honeyville, Utah, 265.5 points on 3 bulls with total money earned, $16,000. 2, Tim Bingham, Honeyville, Utah, 181 on 3, $2250. 3, Joe Frost, Randlett, Utah, 179, $2,250.4, J.W. Harris, 177.5, $2,250.

Bull Team Results

1, Jeff Harris, Rafter B, Rockin C, 286.22 points, $26,000. 2, Whisnant and Shaw, 285.6, $16,000. 3, JQH Bucking Bulls, 285.5, $13,000. 4, 283.02, Barker- Barnett, $8,500.

Full Schedule Announced for Wild West Weekend Feb. 21-24th in El Paso, TX

The full schedule for Wild West Weekend in El Paso, TX has been released and begins on Wednesday, February 21 and runs through Saturday, February 24th. The full schedule is below. 

Wednesday, February 21 

9 am/10 am: Bill is No Bully Live Bull Program with Gary Hedeman at St. Pius School, 1007 Geronimo, El Paso, TX 79905

3 -5 pm: KLAQ Radio Remote with Live Bull Bill is No Bully and Gary Hedeman at the Teachers Federal Credit Union, 100 Village Court, El Paso, 79992

Thursday, February 22 

9 am: Bill is No Bully Program with Gary Hedeman at Johnson Elementary School, 499 Cabaret Drive, El Paso, 79912.

1:00 pm: Bill is no Bully Program with Gary Hedeman at Clardy Elementary, 5508 Delta, El Paso, TX 79905.

3:00 – 5pm: Tuff Hedeman at Casa Ford with KHEY FM 96.3, 5815 Montana, 79925 (address)

Friday, February 23

9:00 am: Bill is No Bully Live Bull at the Cooley Elementary, 107 N Collingsworth, El Paso, Texas 79905.

2:00-5pm: Bull Riders NFR qualifier Cody Rostockyj, Mexican Champions Francisco Garcia and Hector Lerma at Casa Ford with KOFX FM 92.3, 5815 Montana, 79925

3:00-5 pm: Tuff Hedeman and Bull Riders at Cavender’s, 8889 Gateway Blvd W Suite 640, El Paso, TX 79925

3:00-5 pm: Bill is No Bull and Roach Hedeman at TFCU, 12020 Rojas, 79936

6:00-8 pm: Tuff Hedeman(6pm to 7) and bull riders (6 pm to 8) at Whataburger, 12140 Montwood Drive, 79936

7:30 pm: Cody Johnson live in Concert at Whiskey Dick’s for the THBR Kick Off Party, 1580 George Dieter Dr # 204, El Paso, TX 79936

Saturday, February 24

5:00 pm: Tailgate Down Party at the El Paso County Coliseum Parking Lot with Bobcat  from KHEY FM 96.3, 4100 E. Pasiano, 79905

6:00 pm: Hospitality Suite Opens for Sponsors

6:30 pm: Gates Open to the Public

8:00 pm: Casa Ford Tuff Hedeman Bull Riding Tour Show starts

9:30 pm: After Party at Whiskey Dick’s, 1580 George Dieter Dr # 204, El Paso, TX 79936

HOTEL INFO:

Fairfield Inn and Suites by Marriott El Paso Airport

6611 Edgemere Blvd El Paso, TX 79925 (915) 772-2202

Hall of Fame Bullfighter Gary "Roach" Hedeman, Brings Anti Bullying Program to El Paso for Wild West Weekend

Gary "Roach" Hedeman brings anti bullying program to El Paso

Former professional bullfighter Gary “Roach” Hedeman, and the pet bucking bull Bill, will be in town visiting local elementary schools and using the opportunity to spread the message that “bullying” is not acceptable behavior. Hedeman brings Bill and his story to four local elementary schools with the help of the Teachers Federal Credit Union and the annual Casa Ford Tuff Hedeman Bull Riding presented by Sunland Park Racetrack and Casino, scheduled for Saturday night at the El Paso County Coliseum.  

Bill is No Bully is a story about a bull that doesn’t fit in. The other bulls in the pasture, famous bucking bulls, are mean to Bill. When Bill takes a different path he is met with resistance. The book, written and illustrated by Cindy Hedeman, is part of an anti-bullying presentation that makes use of a live bull to interact with the children.

“Bill is No Bully is a great tool to communicate with kids while at the same time increasing awareness about bullying in schools and in life,” said Hedeman.

The real-life Bill is a 4-year-old Charolais-Brahma bred bull raised and owned by the Hedeman family. Gary Hedeman who grew up in El Paso now resides in North Texas, created the program with Cindy Hedeman, who wrote and animated the children’s book.

Bill is No Bully El Paso Schedule:

Wednesday, February 21 – 9 am and 10 am – St. Pius School, 1007 Geronimo, El Paso, TX 79905 3 -5 pm, Teachers Federal Credit Union, 100 Village Court, El Paso, 7992

Thursday, February 22 - 9 am at Johnson Elementary School, 499 Cabaret Drive, El Paso, 79912. 1 pm – Clardy Elementary, 5508 Delta, 79905.

Friday, February 23 - 9 am and 10 am Cooley Elementary, 107 N Collingsworth, 79905.

Children will hear Bill’s message via Hall of Fame Bullfighter, Roach Hedeman, brother of four time World Champion bull rider Tuff Hedeman who is in town this week producing the Casa Ford Tuff Hedeman Bull Riding Tour presented by Sunland Park Racetrack and Casino on Saturday, February 24 at the El Paso County Coliseum beginning at 8 pm. The annual event is expected to sellout, but tickets are still available at the El Paso County Coliseum, or Ticketmaster.com. Prices start at $15 to $75 and VIP seating available! Follow Tuff Hedeman on Facebook @TuffHedeman and Instagram @TuffHedemanOfficial.

Mexican Champion Bull Riders Invited to compete at Tuff Hedeman El Paso Bull Riding

Mexican Champion Bull Riders Invited to compete at Tuff Hedeman El Paso Bull Riding

Wild West Weekend features top-ranked International Champion Bull Riders

EL PASO, Texas – February 31, 2018 – Four-time World Champion Bull Rider and Pro Rodeo Hall of Famer, Tuff Hedeman, announced this week he has invited two highly decorated bull riding champions from Mexico to compete in the 2018 Casa Ford Tuff Hedeman Bull Riding presented by Sunland Park Racetrack and Casino. Hedeman known for cultivating talent in the bull riding arena announced today that invitations to compete at the Casa Ford Tuff Hedeman Bull Riding Tour had been issued to Mexican bull riders Hector Lerma and Fransisco Garcia. For three decades Hedeman's legendary mentoring and leadership has bull riders following him onto the dirt as he provided the opportunity for them to win money while competing on great livestock.

Hector Lerma, a two time Mexico National Champion bull rider (2015, 2016) from Saltillo, Coahuila is the former PRCA Mexico Champion (2016), and Champion of Cuernos Chuecos Tour (2016).  Herma was recently a finalist at the PRCA Ram Circuit Finals in Kissimmee, Florida in 2017 and is the 2017 Los Cruces Bucking for the Cure event champion.

 “It is exciting to have these two bull riders compete in El Paso in what will definitely be a hometown crowd advantage for them, they are both proven champions and should compete well at this level of pro event,” said Hedeman.

Francisco Garcia, a two time (2015, 2016) Campeon Nacional Champion, has been a professional bull rider for eleven years and won numerous titles including three-time Coahuila State Champion and Chihuahua Epic Battle Champion. In addition to riding successfully in Mexico, he has competed on the Professional Bull Riders Inc. tour and was a finalist in the PRCA's Ram Circuit Finals in 2016 and advanced to the semifinal round in the 2017 El Paso event.

The 6'2, 175-pound thirty-year-old bull rider from Leon, Mexico will join the number one bull rider in the world, Sage Kimzey, and the top twenty-four bull riders on the dirt inside the El Paso County Coliseum for the three-round tournament style bull riding set to begin at 8 pm on Saturday night. The annual bucking bull blowout that is the final event of Hedeman’s Wild West Weekend sells out each year at the El Paso Coliseum.

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

The annual Casa Ford Tuff Hedeman Bull Riding Presented by Sunland Park Racetrack and Casino returns for the 13th consecutive year to the El Paso County Coliseum where Hedeman’s national bull riding tour is making preparations at the El Paso County Coliseum for what Hedeman is calling the “Wild West Weekend.”

The Casa Ford Tuff Hedeman Bull Riding is known for its action-packed performances that keep fans on the edge of their seats and every time Tuff Hedeman returns to his hometown of El Paso it is always a great show! From having world class bulls matched up with 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 the El Paso County Coliseum, Cavenders, or Ticketmaster.com. Prices start at $15 to $75 and VIP seating available! Fans are encouraged to get their tickets now as the show is expected to be a sell-out. Tickets are available at www.tuffhedemanbullriding.com and ticketmaster.com. Follow Tuff Hedeman on Facebook @TuffHedeman and Instagram @TuffHedemanOfficial. Schedule and appearances will be released at a later date.

2018 Tuff Hedeman Bull Riding Tour Stops in Las Vegas at the South Point Arena and Equestrian Center Saturday, March 3

2018 Tuff Hedeman Bull Riding Tour Stops in Las Vegas at the South Point Arena and Equestrian Center Saturday, March 3

LAS VEGAS – The pioneer behind the sport of professional bull riding, Tuff Hedeman, is returning to Las Vegas, and to the South Point Arena and Equestrian Center, on Saturday, March 3 with his signature event, newly titled the “Tuff Hedeman Bull Riding Tour.” Top ranked bull riders and bulls will compete for one night only as four-time World Champion and Pro Rodeo Hall of Famer, Tuff Hedeman, lines up the roster of World Champions and Wrangler National Finals Rodeo athletes to compete for the championship title.

“I have either been competing or producing bull riding events for Las Vegas and rodeo fans for over 25 years, and I look forward every year to providing the community with a top-rated bull riding competition and some great entertainment,” said Tuff Hedeman. “It is amazing to see Las Vegas being recognized as the sports destination that we have always known it to be, and it’s an honor to bring our event back in March alongside NASCAR, USA Sevens Rugby, Vegas Golden Knights and UFC. It will be an amazing sport filled weekend.”

The Tuff Hedeman Bull Riding Las Vegas event is the highlight of the industry that pits man verses bull in a two-hour long bull riding competition that promises to captivate and entertain fans. Throughout the event, 24 bull riders and 40 bulls will compete in a three-round tournament-style sudden death format that keeps fans on the edge of their seat as their favorite riders challenge up to three bulls in one performance. The event concludes in a final four man round where the competitor must ride to win the lion’s share of the prize money. Las Vegas will be the third stop on the Tuff Hedeman Bull Riding Tour in 2018. The competition in Las Vegas follows previous events held in Hobbs, New Mexico and El Paso, Texas where bull riders earned points towards a World Finals bonus and World title.

Doors will open at 6:30 p.m. and the competition will get underway at 7:30 p.m.  Follow Tuff Hedeman on Facebook and Instagram @TuffHedemanOfficial. Schedule, roster of competitors and appearances will be released at a later date.

Tickets can be purchased here: bit.ly/tufflasvegas

Tuff Hedeman Bull Riding Returns to El Paso for 13th Consecutive Year

Tuff Hedeman Bull Riding Returns to El Paso for 13th Consecutive Year

Wild West Weekend features top ranked World Champion Bull Riders and leading entertainment

EL PASO, Texas – February 2, 2018 – The pioneer of the sport of professional bull riding, Tuff Hedeman, is returning to El Paso on February 24 with his signature style two hour adrenaline rush action packed entertainment. The annual Casa Ford Tuff Hedeman Bull Riding Presented by Sunland Park Racetrack and Casino returns for the 13th consecutive year to the El Paso County Coliseum where Hedeman’s national bull riding tour is making preparations at the El Paso County Coliseum for what Hedeman is calling the “Wild West Weekend.”

Hedeman announced today the Wild West Weekend includes concerts by Cody Johnson, a kickoff party at the Soggy Peso, an after party at Whiskey Dicks with the traditional Tailgate Down Party on event night.  Top ranked bull riders and bulls will compete for one night only as four time World Champion and Pro Rodeo Hall of Famer Tuff Hedeman lines up an impressive roster of World Champions and Wrangler National Finals Rodeo athletes to compete for the coveted El Paso championship title.

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

 “I have either been competing or producing bull ridings for the people of El Paso for over 25 years, it’s an honor to bring it back in February and be part of such an awesome weekend in the town I call home,” said Hedeman.

Hedeman pioneered producing bull riding events that have been thrilling the El Paso audiences with the two things he knows fans want to see - great bull rides and high scores. 

For three decades Hedeman’s legendary mentoring and leadership has bull riders following him onto the dirt as he provided opportunity for them to win money while competing on great livestock. Former El Paso Champions include the most decorated bull rider in the World, 4 time PRCA World Champion Sage Kimzey who kicked off his career in El Paso, gathering valuable momentum  on the way to his first World title. Kimzey would return to win the El Paso title in 2017.

“El Paso is special to me, I have great memories from right here in this building. I won my first title here in 2014 and got my first 90 point score here at the rodeo in this building. The fans here are awesome and they love watching bull riding…you can’t beat the atmosphere, they are knowledgeable about the sport, from the introductions to the last rider they are as loud as you can ask for and it’s always fun to come here,” said Kimzey.

The annual bull riding event returns to El Paso with celebrated bulls matched up with super star riders on Saturday, February 24 where the Tailgate Down Party kicks off at 5 pm followed by the doors opening at 6:30 p.m. and the competition will get underway at 8 p.m. Keeping World Champions and fans on the edge of their seats is Hedeman’s specialty and implementing a three round tournament style event designed to enhance fan experience allows them to see their favorite rider challenge as many as three bulls in one night.

Protecting the bull riding athletes will be Hedeman’s Cowboy Protection Agency where cowboy lifesavers will take the hits as they distract the bucking beasts so the rider can escape safely. Funnyman Cody Sosebee returns to El Paso and is guaranteed to  keep you laughing as he roams the crowd dancing, joking, and giving away merchandise and prizes to unsuspecting ticket holders.

“I have enjoyed an amazing partnership throughout the years with our friends in El Paso and as most of you know its home for me and we look forward every year to coming back with a top rated bull riding competition and some great entertainment and you don’t have to know anything about the sport to enjoy the show,” said Hedeman.

The Tuff Hedeman Bull Riding is the highlight event that pits man verses bull in a two-hour long bull riding competition that promises to captivated and entertain fans. Throughout the event, 24 bull riders and 40 bulls will compete in a three-round tournament-style sudden death format. The event concludes in a final four man round where you must ride to win the lion’s share of the prize money. El Paso will be the second stop on the 2018 Tuff Hedeman Bull Riding Tour.  Tickets are available at www.tuffhedemanbullriding.com. Follow Tuff Hedeman on Facebook and Instagram @OfficialTuffHedeman. Schedule and appearances will be released at a later date.

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

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

Tickets on Sale now at the El Paso County Coliseum, Cavenders, or Ticketmaster.com. Prices start at $15 to $75 and VIP seating available! Fans are encouraged to get their tickets now as the show is expected to be a sell-out.

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

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

Soggy Peso Beer Garden, 11355 Pellicano, El Paso, Texas 79936

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

Bull Riding Icon Launches Tour and Website

Bull Riding Icon Launches Tour and Website

FORT WORTH, Texas - January 30, 2018 - Four time World Champion bull rider and Pro Rodeo Hall of Famer Tuff Hedeman announced today the formation of the Tuff Hedeman Bull Riding Tour which includes Hedeman’s annual tour stops within the next 90 days in El Paso, Las Vegas, Bossier City, and Fort Worth. Tickets are on sale now and information available on www.tuffhedemanbullriding.com.

Hedeman recently made the decision to go out on his own 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.

“At this point in my life, it’s best for my family to be solely responsible for my destiny. 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.

In today’s announcement Michael Gaughan, businessman and owner of the South Point Hotel, Casino and Spa in Las Vegas, called Hedeman a “pioneer of the sport” and is pleased Hedeman will be at the South Point to produce the Las Vegas Bull Riding at the South Point Arena on March 3.

The bull riding leader has been producing bull riding events that have been thrilling audiences with his two hour adrenaline rush entertainment style punctuated with the two things he knows fans want to see great bull rides and high scores. 

For three decades Tuff Hedeman has been a part of providing opportunities for bull riders and the result is evident. Many of the bull riders who have earned the title of World Champion have benefited from his devotion to bull riders…on and off the chutes.

Hedeman was one of the original founders of the PBR and served as the first President of the PBR from 1992 to 2004 and he was President of the CBR from 2005 to 2011. Hedeman is a four-time world champion with three PRCA titles (1986, 1989 and 1991) and the 1995 PBR world champion. He was inducted into the ProRodeo Hall of Fame in 1997 and awarded the PBR Ring of Honor in 1999.  Hedeman retired from bull riding competition in 1998 after a neck injury.

Hedeman began his career in professional bull riding in 1981 and retired in 1999 and is recognized within the industry as a staunch supporter of the sport and the professional bull rider as a professional athlete. Over the past 28 years he has proven to be a tireless and versatile event producer with an incredible ability to connect with people and fans from all walks of life.

For more information, press credentials and interviews contact Leigh Ann Schroeder – 940-902-1112 or TuffHedemanPR@gmail.com. Follow Tuff and the tour on tuffhedemanbullriding.com. Facebook/TuffHedeman and @TuffHedemanofficial.

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. 

Awards

1986, 89, 91 PRCA World Bull Riding Champion

1987, '89 NFR Average Champion

1993 First $1,000,000 Bull Rider

1995 PBR Touring Pro Division Champion

1995 PBR World Champion Bull Rider

Honors

1988 Cowboy Capital Walk of Fame

1997 ProRodeo Hall of Fame

1997 El Paso Athletic Hall of Fame

1999 PBR Heroes & Legends Celebration: Ring of Honor

2002 Texas Cowboy Hall of Fame

2003 Cheyenne Frontier Days Hall of Fame

2010 Texas Rodeo Cowboy Hall of Fame

2016 Bull Riding Hall of Fame

2017 Molalla Walk of Fame