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

Trey Kimzey Claims first Tuff Hedeman Bull Riding Championship

Trey Kimzey rides three to get the win on his 21st birthday at the 2020 Hobbs Tuff Hedeman Bull Riding

Hobbs Tuff Hedeman Bull Riding

Bull riders know it is not how you start a Tuff Hedeman Bull Riding Tour event, it’s how you finish that counts. On Saturday night at the Lea County Events Center, 29 cowboys from nine states and one Australian bull rider lined up to launch the 2020 season of the Tuff Hedeman Bull Riding Tour.

Twenty-one qualified rides later on his twenty-first birthday, Trey Kimzey of Strong City, Oklahoma tapped into the Kimzey consistency gene riding three bulls he had never drawn for a perfect night and his first win on Hedeman’s tour.

Hedeman introduces Kimzey to the packed house as he claims his first THBRT title in Hobbs, New Mexico

Trey, the younger brother of six-time World Champion bull rider Sage Kimzey was second in the average going into the Shoot Out round. In Hedeman’s sudden death format, all scores are dropped when you enter the final four-man round.

“Going up and down the road helps you prepare to ride three at these events, you get seasoned, but its great to come to Tuff’s events, they are just great events, you can’t ask for a better set of bulls to get on and great money,” said Kimzey.

With the fans on their feet, Kimzey and Tyler Bingham battled it out with both riding for 91.5 points. The tie-breaker judge was in Kimzey’s favor to make him the last man standing in front of the chutes and cheering fans accepting his first championship buckle and jumbo check from Tuff Hedeman.

Round One

Feeling the energy from the packed house, round one took off with 14 qualified rides. Tristan Mize (Bryan, TX) and JT Moore (Alvin, TX) led the field of 30 splitting the round win with a pair of 91.5’s on 748 The Jungle (JQH) and 2810 Speckled Chicken (Rawson). Garrett Jones (Devers, TX) had a solid seat for 89.5 points on Jeff Harris’s Fat Boy. Matching his was another pair of 89.5’s turned in by Brett Custer on Barker’s Cadillac Jack and New Mexico’s own, Joseph McConnel on Whisnant/Shaw’s Bumble B. 

2-time NFR contestant Tyler Bingham put up 89 points on a  bull he has seen but never drawn, Jones & Car’s NFR bull 277 Butter Bean.  THBRT rookie Tadd Dictson from Odessa also rode for 89 with DJ LaFleur, Colton Fritzan at 88.5, and 88 points, respectively. 

Trey Kimzey and Brody Yeary would also advance on 87 point rides on 4008 Missing After Midnight (JQH) and 606 Smooth Steel (Baker).  

"I had not seen him before, and I got a video from Skip Jones, and he told me the first round is yours. He felt great just couldn't ask for a better first-round bull," said Kimzey.

Semifinal Round

In the THBRT sudden death format, 12 cowboys advance to the second round, but with 15 bull teams entered, the number of semifinal round bull riders that would move on expanded to 15. In a twist of fate, rookie Colton Fritzlan and two veteran riders, Trey Kimzey and Brody Yeary, would benefit the additional bull team entries and advance at the number 13, 14, and 15 positions.

Aaron Pass on Billy Jones/Carr High Rise.

31-year-old Aaron Pass and Utah’s Tyler Bingham both scored 91 points in the Semifinal round to split the win. Pass rode 462 Lil Willard; the top-scored bull within the THBRT bull team competition. Bingham, who finished fourth in the PRCA 2019 World Standings, was happy to get on and ride the familiar 370 Tequila Worm, a bull he watched Boudreaux Campbell earn 92.5 points on for round 6 win at the NFR.

Getting on his second unknown bull, Kimzey handled 49B Topline (Whisnant/Shaw) for 90.5 points. ,

"He was a little tougher, I knew him a little bit, he pulled me down, and I had to really sit and get back up and finish it off…it definitely got a little tough," said a smiling Kimzey.

Yeary made the most of a re-ride opportunity riding for 89.5, and Garret Jones turned in 86.5 on Rumble in the Jungle (Harris).

Stick Bull Riding,a fan favorite returned to Hobbs.

Shoot Out Round

With three NFR bucking bulls on the Shoot Out list of bulls, Bingham earned the right to pick first with his average on two 180. He wasted no time picking Danny Mason’s Money Maker.

Kimzey, with 177.5 on two, picked Burruss’s Hacksaw Ridge.

“I looked up the Shoot Out bulls and knew if that bull was not picked first by Tyler, I wanted him. I saw him all summer and saw him at the NFR, and Koby Radley rode him out there, and I really liked him and wanted to get on him,” said Kimzey about his winning bull pick.

Trey Kimzey wins Hobbs THBRT on NFR bull Hacksaw Ridge (Burruss) - 91.5 points.

Yeary in the third position, 176.5 selected 126 Black Gold, leaving Garret Jones, 176 on 2, to ride 53 Wired Up.

With the bull bucking into his hand, Jones was out first with a solid seat for 5 seconds then bucked off before the whistle. Out next was Brody Yeary, who was overpowered at 4.6 seconds and flew into the bucking chutes.

Kimzey, matching the bull's speed, stayed in rhythm jump for jump, working hard to stay forward. Waiting on the whistle, the bull changed direction in a last attempt to buck Kimzey off. Kimzey rode through the change and was rewarded 91.5 for his effort.

Tyler Bingham, 91.5 points on Danny Mason’s Money Maker. Bingham rode three to tie Kimzey for the win.

And then there was one. Bingham had his hands full from the gate opening. With Money Maker bucking into his hand Bingham made some big moves to get back up and stay on until the whistle. The judges scored their second 91.5 of the round.

THBRT rules send the decision to a tie-breaker judge who delivered the win to Kimzey.  

Bull Team Challenge

The Hobbs THBRT Bull Team competition was worth $75,000 to the fifteen teams entered. After two hours of 19 qualified rides within the first two rounds, Billy Jones and Carr Pro Rodeo owned the team that left Hobbs with the 2020 Bull Team Competition championship.and a $25,000 check.  Jones who collected two checks including a fifth-place finish as well had this to say about selecting his teams. 

Tyler Bingham on Jones/Car NFR bull Butter Bean. Bingham was 89 points in the semi-final round

“I put the best bulls I had that I knew were solid and I knew what they were going to do, they all did just what I thought they would do. The team I won first with was the team I did not think would get ridden, the team that was fifth was the ones I though they would ride, so it proves sometimes its just luck,” laughed Jones as he picked up his $30,000 earnings checks.

Bingham riding NFR bull 370 Tequila Worm, the feature bull at Hobbs and part of the winning trio for the Jones/Carr bull team.

The top five highest scored bulls of the competition were led by a three-way tie of an 89.5 bull score. 462 Lil Willard, who assisted Aaron Pass to the Semi-final round win, Jones/Box K’s 155 River Monster who got the best of Hunter Ball in less than 3 seconds, and 505 Outerlimits (Burruss) who bucked off Cullen Telfer in 4.31 seconds. Right behind them was Whisnant and Shaw's 66B High Carbon bucking off NFR qualifier Reid Barker in 3.91 seconds with an 88.5 score. Rounding out the top five bulls in Hobbs was 775 I'm A Secret (Barker), who was no secret to Joseph McConnel, who lives in the same town but bucked off in 1.33 seconds.

Results

Hobbs THBRT Results

1, Trey Kimzey, Strong City, Oklahoma, 91.5 Points on Hacksaw Ridge (Burruss) $12,162.50. 2, Tyler Bingham, 91.5 points on Money Maker, $7,587.50. 3, Brody Yeary, 176.5 on Black Gold (Jones/Car) , $2,300. 4, Garrett Jones, 176 on Wired Up (Harris) 3, $2,300.

Hobbs Bull Team Results

1, Billy Jones/Carr Pro Rodeo, 283.71 points, Winnings $25,500. 2, Bob Whisnant/Shaw Cattle Co., 282.91, $20,250.00. 3, Richardson Land & Cattle, 279.91, $15,000. 4. Rawson Bucking Bulls, 276.35, $9,750.00. 5, Jones/Box K Cattle, 275.76 $4,500.

Retired Marine Johnny “Backflip” Johnny entertained the Hobbs THBR

Hobbs Bull Profile - 370 Tequila Worm

Carr Pro Rodeo’s 370 Tequila Worm, a six year old bull sired by Little Yellow Jacket, is the feature bucking bull at the Hobbs Tuff Hedeman Bull Riding.

2020 Hobbs Tuff Hedeman Bull Riding

Tuff Hedeman announced today that two-time National Finals rodeo bucking bull 370 Tequila Worm is headed to Hobbs, New Mexico for the kick off of the 2020 Tuff Hedeman Bull Riding Tour. Already in Hobbs are twenty-eight bull riders anxiously waiting to see which bull rider's name is listed beside the six-year-old superstar bucker owned by Carr Pro Rodeo.

Branded number 370, this bull is sired by the legendary Little Yellow Jacket and is just one of 50 great buckers on the roster tonight in Hobbs at the Lea County Events Center.

Two-time NFR contestant Koby Radley on 370 Tequila Worm - Photo credit Todd Brewer

Former Hobbs bull riding Champ Boudreaux Campbell stayed strong through a powerful performance from 370 at the 2019 National Finals Rodeo in Las Vegas. Thanks to "the Worm," Campbell scored 92.5 and captured the Round 6 buckle at the super bowl of rodeo.

“He’s a big giant bull with lots of moves and a lot of action to him; he will fade out into the arena a little bit, which was challenging,” said Campbell following his win in Las Vegas.“

370 has only been ridden four times since his 2018 debut in pro rodeo and sports an average ride score of 89.5 and an average bull score of 44.3 points. In addition to Campbell, NFR contestants Joe Frost (88 pts) and Jordan Spears (88.5 pts) have ridden him as well as Aaron Williams (89 pts) who won the short round on him in San Angelo.

370 made the trip with Billy Jones and is competing on the Car/Jones bull team.

Hedeman, who has produced the annual event in Hobbs for 11 years, brings a two-hour adrenaline rush event featuring a star-studded line up of world-class bulls pitted against the proven champs and the hottest bull riders on the tours today.

The doors will open at 6:00 pm, and the competition will get underway at 7:30 pm.

Event Location: Lea County Events Center - 5101 N Lovington Hwy, Hobbs, NM 88240 (575) 391-2900

Date: Saturday, January 18, 20120

TIME:    7:30 pm

TICKETS: Hobbs Ticketing Link (selectaseatlubbock.com) or Lea County Events Center Box Office (575) 391-2900.

For interviews, press credentials, and more information, please contact Leigh Ann Schroeder 940.902.1112. tuffhedemanpr@gmail.com. Or www.tuffhedemanbullriding.com.

Photo credit: Carr Pro Rodeo and PRCA.

Bull Riding SUPER Stars Return to Lea County Events Center

2020 Hobbs Tuff Hedeman Bull Riding Tour

The 2019 No. 4 ranked bull rider in the world, Tyler Bingham of Honeyville, UT won $246,398.81 riding bulls last year. He is headed to Hobbs to compete tomorrow night at the 2020 kick off of the 2020 Tuff Hedeman Bull Riding tour.

HOBBS, New Mexico – January 17, 2020 – All eyes will be on the Tuff Hedeman Bull Riding Tour (THBRT) on Saturday night to see what bull riding super star will leave Hobbs with a jumbo check to jumpstart his season.

Tuff Hedeman announced today that he added several NFR qualifiers and the reigning THBRT Hobbs Champion to the packed list of talented bull riders headed to Hobbs for the first stop of the 2020 Tuff Hedeman Bull Riding Tour.

Hedeman, this year’s CBS television’s bull riding analyst for the National Finals Rodeo, claims if you did not make it to Las Vegas, buy your tickets now to see several top 15 in the world bull-riding talent Saturday night at the Lea County Events Center where 28 riders will line-up to compete for $30,000 in Hedeman’s signature style three-round tournament.

“With the level of talent this year I expect to see the building on fire, both the riders and the bulls in Hobbs this year make this a major league bull riding – it’s simple bulls are to bull riding what horses are to horse racing,” said Hedeman this morning on the air with Teresa at NoalMark radio stations in Hobbs. 

The annual event features a field of 28 elite bull riders in a three-round tournament-style competition ending in a sudden-death final four Shoot Out round worth at least $30,000 to the riders and $50,000 in competition prize monies for the bucking bull athletes.

Returning Hobbs Champion, J.T. Moore of Alvin, Texas will compete for a back to back win Saturday night at the Lea County Events Center.

The Contenders

Four-time World Champion bull rider and Pro Rodeo Hall of Famer Tuff Hedeman, who presides over the annual event, confirmed today that J.T. Moore, the 2019 event champion, was returning to Hobbs to defend his title. 

“The only reason J.T. was not at the NFR was he didn’t compete in enough rodeos, he is super talented and capable of winning it again,” said Hedeman.

But Moore will have to get past 27 contenders with several National Finals Rodeo contestants making the roster, including Tyler Bingham and Trey Kimzey, who accepted the call to compete in Hobbs. Bingham finished fourth in the PRCA world standings earning over half a million dollars riding bulls last year.

NFR contestant Trey Kimzey returns to Hobbs in search of his first Tuff Hedeman Bull Tour title.

Matt Palmer, Chelsee, Oklahoma, is the Red Wilk Construction Huron Tuff Hedeman Bull riding champion and he will be looking to add another title and check to his name in Hobbs.

Matt Palmer, the Oklahoma cowboy who won the THBRT Huron Championship, will be in Hobbs looking to extend his winning streak and gather up another win for his trophy case and wallet.     

Kimzey, the younger brother of the reigning 5-time PRCA World Champion Sage Kimzey, will make his second appearance in Hobbs in search of his first Tuff Hedeman bull riding title. Trey competed at his first NFR in December, with total earnings in 2019 of $124,929.60.  

"There are two things fans want to see, big rides and high scores, and these riders can provide both,” said Hedeman about the additions to the bull riding roster.

Get ready to cheer these highly decorated champions and the up and coming young cowboy athletes that are on the road early to win the large purses available on Tuff's tour that can fund a cowboy's year of competition.

"The cowboys have known for many years that it pays to come to Hobbs, it takes a lot of money to travel to events and rodeos, the money they can win here can launch their season and give them a lot more opportunities to compete," added Hedeman.

Family Fun Entertainment

Enter the stick bull riding - stickbullrider@aol.com; begins at 6:15 and is free and open to the public to boys and girls age 6 years and under.

There will be something for everyone at the Lea County Events Center.  Bring your children to jump-start their career to the stick bull riding competition before the opening of the show. Request entry form at stickbullrider@aol.com to enter. It's free to enter, and the kids will have a blast as they come out of the pint-size bucking chutes complete with the announcer, cowbells, and bullfighter protection.

Four-time World Champion Tuff Hedeman has been producing top-rated events for over 30 years, and ticket holders can look forward to a great night as he recruited some of the industry’s leading entertainment and personnel including the PRCA’s 2020 Man in the Can award winner, Johnny ‘Backflip Dudley”, a retired US Marine. Dudley will perform routines and roam the crowd giving away merchandise and providing his own style of comic relief. 

Bullfighters Beau Schueth and Bryce Redo lead bull riders to safety all night at the Tuff Hedeman Bull Ridings.

Cowboy live-saving, grand pyro introductions, and excellent family entertainment assure bull riding fans a super-live two-hour adrenaline rush show. 

Meet and Greet Tuff and the Boys

Meet Tuff and the gang along with the Justin Kemp Band at the Meet and Greet event held this year at the Rockwind Grill, 5100 Jack Gomez Blvd,   from 6-9 pm.  Don’t forget your tee shirts, hats, 8 Second DVDs, or anything else you want Tuff Hedeman and the bull riders to autograph because immediately following the event; they will be on the arena floor.

Tickets

Tickets Selectaseatlubbock.com or call 806-770-2000

Location: Lea County Events Center, 5101 N Lovington Hwy, Hobbs, NM 88240

WEBSITES: selectaseatlubbock.com, TuffHedemanbullriding.com, www.leacountyevents.com

For more information, contact: Leigh Ann Schroeder, tuffhedemanpr@gmail.com, call or text 940.902.1112. Follow Tuff Hedeman on Facebook and Instagram @TuffHedemanOfficial.

PRCA's Barrel Man of the Year Debuts in Hobbs

 Hobbs Tuff Hedeman Bull Riding Tour

Tuff Hedeman announced today the debut of Retired U.S.Marine Johnny “Backflip” Dudley, the PRCA’s 2019 award-winning “Man in the Can”, as the barrel man of the one night only performance of the annual Hobbs Tuff Hedeman Bull Riding Tour on January 18, 2020, at the Lea County Events Center.

Johnny “Backflip” Dudley performing for the crowd in Jacksonville, Texas.

“Johnny’s probably one of the hottest talents in time-honored western entertainment, his quick wit and off the cuff banter is headed to Hobbs. Johnny’s known for always taking time to visit with every kid and fan,” said 4-time World Champion and Pro Rodeo Hall of Famer Tuff Hedeman.

In December, at the 2019 National Finals Rodeo PRCA Banquet, Dudley was awarded the highest honor for his profession, the PRCA Coors Man in the Can. Dudley, a highly decorated clown, has been chosen twice for the Turquoise Circuit Finals rodeo, five times for the PRCA's All American Finals, and nominated twice for the PRCA Comedy Act of the Year, joined the Tuff Hedeman Tour last August when he performed in Huron, South Dakota.

“From the first time that I put makeup on to the day that I received my PRCA card in 2003, to the many times that I watched others win this buckle, to the miles driven and so many nights away from home, this buckle is one that I’ve had dreams about,” he said.

“It’s the one that every rodeo clown dreams about. It’s a gold buckle. The same gold buckle that is given to the world champion cowboys,” he said.

But as impressive as what Dudley has done in the rodeo arena, is what he did before finding the rodeo world.

Dudley, a professional clown on the rodeo and bull riding circuits since 2000, spent eight years as a United State Marine.  While Johnny's path was unconventional, it was Johnny's mom that guided him to his eight years as a United States Marine. After reaching Sargent status and serving in Kosovo, he received an honorable discharge to pursue his advanced degree in International Business.

Johnny Dudley - 2019 PRCA Man in the Can winner

“I saw a rodeo clown act while serving as a United States Marine and thought he was funny and cool. I went up to him and asked about it.  I wanted to try it, and when I got out of the Marines I moved back to Dayton I found a local practice rodeo arena where I could learn the craft, and next thing you know, here we are 19 years later, and I'm still doing it," said Dudley about getting his start in pro rodeo.

Hands down the favorite part of being a rodeo clown for former U.S. Marine is putting smiles on people’s faces.

“Everyone in this world has problems going on in their life. Whether its money, loss of family, cancer, and at a rodeo, that person might be sitting next to someone with no problems, if I can make both of them seem like the same person for just that two hours, it makes it worth it,” said Dudley.

Athletic ability separates Dudley from the field of clowns.  Nicknamed Johnny Backflip Dudley that specific skill divided the newcomer into the established, generational, and crowded field of clowns and specialty acts.

"The athletic ability to do backflips while fighting bulls and jumping over bulls is what makes me unique, I guess, no one expected that from the barrel man,” continued Dudley.

According to Dudley, in addition to athletics, Dudley has improved in other areas as well. Honing his skills on the road over the previous 19 years, Dudley says his timing has improved.

“In rodeo, you have to learn to work both ends…I know when to say what and I understand production, so I am not in the way,” laughed the Dayton, Texas native.

Dudley’s claims his knowledge of production stems from moonlighting as a rodeo announcer.

“When I started rodeoing for a living I worked some as a clown, and I announced some too, I really did not know which way I wanted to go. I believe that announcing experience helps me be a better clown. If the announcer is struggling, I can jump in…or out."

Looking forward to working on the Tuff Hedeman Tour, Dudley explains how he got the job.

“I  am looking forward to working with the production team at his events this season. He has the reputation of good money, great bull riders, announcers, and the top people of their field - which makes a very nice environment to work in, his productions are well respected within the industry and the fans,” said Dudley.

Dudley invites you to his debut performance in Hobbs, where Tuff and the team of great bull riders and crew guarantee they will help you forget about your problems and laugh and have fun for two hours.

Johnny and wife Emily at the National Finals Rodeo banquet.

“If I can accomplish that, it’s absolutely my favorite part.”

For more information, contact Leigh Ann Schroeder at 940.902.1112, tuffhedemanpr@gmail.com. Follow us on Facebook (Tuff Hedeman) and Instagram Gram @TuffHedemanOfficial, and Tuff Hedeman Bull Riding Website.

Tuff Hedeman announces entertainment highlights for upcoming Hobbs bull riding

Tuff Hedeman Bull Riding Tour Returns to Lea County Event Center

HOBBS - Bringing elite professional bull riders and entertainment together for over 30 years, Tuff Hedeman announced today the entertinament highlights of his Tuff Hedeman Bull Riding Tour’s season opener held on January 18 at 7:30 pm at the Lea County Event Center.

2019 Hobbs THBRT Champion J.T. Moore accepting check from Hedeman

“We are excited to announce The Justin Kemp Band will be playing immediately following the bull riding on Saturday night, so come enjoy the bull riding and the band,” said Hedeman.

Justin and the band tour nationally and perform as a trio with David Kemp (Bass) and a fiddle player. They have opened for many major acts, including Travis Tritt, Tanya Tucker, Josh Abbott Band, Kevin Fowler, and Wade Bowen, to name a few.

In addition to a good concert, Hedeman knows what’s important to the bull rider athletes. Following money and momentum is the goal is to provide both the young gun cowboys and veteran athletes who are looking to begin, build, and fund a successful season and a financially lucrative start to their year.   

“The prize money available next weekend will help several cowboys fund their rodeo season, giving them money to travel and pay entry fees to their next event while pursuing their dreams," said Hedeman.

“It pays to come to Hobbs,” continued Hedeman, who produces the annual bull riding in Hobbs.  Hedeman, who recently commentated on the National Finals Rodeo for CBS, is considered the pioneer of the sport of bull riding, and he continues to lead the way with additional opportunities for the cowboy athletes and their four-legged opponents.

Before the chute gates open this year, you can win two VIP tickets to the bull riding, meet Tuff and the boys and enjoy the Justin Kemp Band at the Rockwind Grill, 5001 Jack Gomez Boulevard, on Friday, January 17 from 6 to 9 pm, presented by Pacific Rim.

Tuff Hedeman also announced today that Backflip Johnny Dudley, a retired US Marine sergeant, will make his debut in Hobbs as the funny man in the barrel man.

“Johnny’s probably one of the hottest talents in time-honored western entertainment, his quick wit and off the cuff banter is headed to Hobbs, he always has enough time to visit with every kid and fan,” said 5-time World Champion and Pro Rodeo Hall of Famer Tuff Hedeman.

The four-time World Champion and Pro Rodeo Hall of Famer has 24 bull riders lined up to take a shot at this year’s prize purse worth $30,000 to the riders and $50,000 to the bulls.

Hedeman brings the family-friendly event to Hobbs with fun for the entire family. Kids 6 and under can get in on the action and win custom trophy buckles and prizes at the stick bull riding, which begins before the show. Email stickbullrider@aol.com to enter, and it's free!

Hedeman, who has produced the annual event in Hobbs for 11 years, brings a two-hour adrenaline rush event featuring a star-studded line up of world-class bulls pitted against the proven champs and the hottest bull riders on the tours today.

The doors will open at 6:00 pm, and the competition will get underway at 7:30 pm.

Event Location: Lea County Events Center - 5101 N Lovington Hwy, Hobbs, NM 88240 (575) 391-2900

Date: Saturday, January 18, 20120

TIME:    7:30 pm

TICKETS: Hobbs Ticketing Link (selectaseatlubbock.com) or Lea County Events Center Box Office (575) 391-2900.

For interviews, press credentials, and more information, please contact Leigh Ann Schroeder 940.902.1112. tuffhedemanpr@gmail.com. Or www.tuffhedemanbullriding.com.

Photo Credit: Todd Brewer or Courtesy of THBRT

Tickets NOW on Sale for Hobbs Tuff Hedeman Bull Riding

Tuff Hedeman Brings Top Flight Bull Riding Back to the Lea County Events Center

THT Hobbs Champion and 3-Time NFR Qualifier Boudreaux Campbell

HOBBS, NM - December 13, 2019 – Stuff your cowboy and cowgirl stockings with tickets and make your plans to attend the Tuff Hedeman Bull Riding at the Lea County Event Center on January 18, at 7:30 pm.

Four-time World Champion and pro rodeo Hall of Famer Tuff Hedeman presides over the tour's elite 24 riders matched to the industry's best-bucking bulls. The one night only performance features a three-round tournament-style event that ends in a four-man Shoot Out round worth $30,000.

Hobbs can jump start your year if you are a bull rider. If you are glued to your seat watching the National Finals Rodeo, you have noticed that several former Hobbs Champions are currently winning in Las Vegas. Hedeman’s former champs of this Hobbs event include 3-time NFR qualifier Boudreaux Campbell, 5-time PRCA World Champion Sage Kimzey, Indian National Champion Cody Jesus, and four-time World Champion J.W. Harris. NFR qualifiers Trey Benton, Koby Radley, and Jeff Askey are regular Hobbs contenders.

3-time NFR qualifier Jeff Askey in Hobbs

“There are two things fans want to see, big rides and high scores and we provide both in a star-studded entertaining event with the veteran and up and coming riders," said four-time World Champion and Pro Rodeo Hall of Famer, Tuff Hedeman who oversees the production.

Bring your young bull riders, boys and girls, to jumpstart their career. The stick bull riding competition is for six years old and under, and the competition gets underway before the opening of the show. Request entry form at stickbullrider@aol.com. It's free to enter, and the kids will have a blast as they come out of the pint-size bucking chutes complete with the announcer, cowbells, and bullfighter's protection.

Tickets on Sale Now at selectaseatlubbock.com or at the Lea County Center Box Office - (575) 391-2900.

You and your family will enjoy the THBRT bullfighters, entertaining barrelman, and grand pyrotechnics introductions. This family-fun entertainment is a jammed packed two-hour adrenaline rush show.

With 30 years of bull riding history on his resume, Tuff Hedeman is one of the most recognizable cowboys in the history of rodeo. Still, he defers to the young superstars as the best bull riding talent he has seen in over 15 years.

Guaranteeing you see a great show that is steeped in the deep roots of western tradition is none other than four-time world titled Hedeman, who has made a name for himself in the production of great bull riding events. Hedeman is on the dirt as the “chute boss” and television commentator during the live production.

2-time NFR qualifier Koby Radley

Come early and enjoy the pre-event activities that include a stick bull riding for the kids, great food, cold beer, shopping, and autograph opportunities.

Bull riders and Hedeman’s appearance schedule for Hobbs will be released at a later date.

Tickets Selectaseatlubbock.com or call 806-770-2000

Location: Lea County Events Center, 5101 N Lovington Hwy, Hobbs, NM 88240

Advertising opportunities and VIP seating contact Cheryl at 254-459-9205 or cfhedeman@aol.com

WEBSITES: Selectaseatlubbock.com; TuffHedemanbullriding.com

For more information, contact: Leigh Ann Schroeder, tuffhedemanpr@gmail.com 940.902.1112.

NFR Bull Rider Profile - Sage Steele Kimzey

Five Down Three to Go

Leading the PRCA World Standings in bull riding for five consecutive years on opening day of the National Finals Rodeo, ten days later Kimzey always leaves Las Vegas with a world title victory.

Starting with his record-breaking rookie year in 2014, Sage Steele Kimzey has dominated the regular season in earnings and titles won. His total PRCA Career Earnings are a staggering $1,829,933.00.

NFR CBS Sports commentator Tuff Hedeman should have plenty to talk about and with Sage Kimzey.

Two bull riders have seriously challenged Kimzey’s Gold Buckle at the NFR. Trey Benton in 2017 and last year rookie NFR rider Chase Daughtery, but in the end, the champ always finds a way to walk out of the Thomas and Mack with the Gold Buckle.

Not only has Sage been the PRCA superstar, but he has also enjoyed tremendous success in the bull riding only category. He broke the CBR held the record for World Championships in 2016, winning for the third time. (2014, 2015, 2017.) At the American he went head to head with the PBR superpowers and defeated them at the Dallas Cowboys AT&T Stadium.

“Kimzey’s gold-paved 2017 regular season reads like a never-ending highlights reel, and includes the W at two of the richest rodeos on the planet—The American, where he won $433,333.33 in February, and the Calgary Stampede, where he earned $108,000 up in Canada in July. For those into bantering about whether or not Kimzey could cut it against PBR cowboys, there was a PBR contingent at both of those rodeos, and you’ll get nothing but mutual respect out of the bull riders themselves on that subject.” - written by Kendra Santos.

“I’m kind of bridging the gap,” Kimzey said. “And I think that’s good for every part of the sport. You have PRCA fans watching the PBR now, and vice-versa. The division is starting to go away, and I think that’s a good thing.”

In the 2019 season, he competed in 92 rodeos and won money in 59, or 64%. He ranks nine percentage points above the second-best percentage – or efficiency in bull riding. Kimzey won 15 bull riding event titles, and 2019 total earnings are logged in his PRCA bank are $245,537.78. He is looking to earn his sixth World Championship. If you are new to the sport, you should know that when he was ten years old, he told 8-time World Champion Donnie Gay that he was going to beat his record…and if you are a betting man in Vegas, it’s considered one of the safest bets in town!

A few things to know when watching Sage Kimzey:

1.      It doesn’t matter to him what his bull draw is – he finds a way to hear the whistle while still on their backs.

2.      It doesn’t matter to him what anyone else on the roster drew – he rides against himself, not the others on the back of the chutes.

3.      Heads up judges and officials – he knows the rules of the sport and the event – probably better than you. He will fight for what is right at all costs, sometimes with and for other cowboys in other events.

4.      While it takes money to succeed in rodeo, with Sage, it's all about the personal success. But for the record, he became the youngest millionaire in PRCA history during the 2016 Wrangler NFR, at 22 years, three months and two weeks old.

Sage Kimzey enjoys a minute with rodeo royalty before the Hedeman Fort Worth Challenge Bull Riding

  NFR HISTORY

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

In 2017, he won Rounds 5 and 10, split the win in Round 3, and placed in five rounds to rank first in the average with 601.5 points on seven head. He finished the year ranked first in the world standings with $436,479. 2016:

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

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

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

His first year as a professional was 2013. He set a PRCA record for most money won on a permit in a single season with $47,726. That same year he qualified for the College National Finals Rodeo as a freshman in 2013 and finished fourth. Many industry insiders questioned his decision to leave Panhandle after just one season…for about a minute.

NFR Bull Rider Profile - Stetson Wright

Stetson Wright - 2019 Tuff Hedeman Fort Worth Challenge Champion

#Wrighton

20-year-old Stetson Wright began his rodeo career in the fourth grade. He is the only member of the infamous rodeo Wright family to compete in bull riding in addition to saddle bronc riding. He is making his first appearance on the dirt of the Thomas and Mack as the No. 2 ranked bull rider, but he is no stranger to the hallowed halls of the NFR.

His career began competing in steer riding with Utah's junior associations when he was in elementary 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. Unlike the other well-known members of the family, Stetson's favorite event is the bull riding, and he committed to riding both bulls and broncs as a professional.

“My Dad (Cody Wright) stresses to stay positive, and you can do anything you want," said Wright before his winning performance 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 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 as well.

Stetson with bullfighter Bryce Redo celebrating riding a perfect night - he rode three for three to win THBRT Fort Worth.

Determined to follow in the footprints of his clan, Stetson achieved his goal of being a contestant earning $152,421.60, and eleven bull riding event wins, including the prestigious Cheyenne Frontier Days in 2019. In the bull riding, he rode in 69 events winning money in 38 or 57%.

He won five rodeos titles in the saddle bronc earning an additional $74,419. He picked up 11 All-Around Cowboy titles, winning both categories at several rodeos.

Sounds like a dream season to most rookie riders looking to get their first back number in Las Vegas, but Stetson's season had its ups and downs like most rodeo professionals experience at some point in their careers.

In April, Stetson was on top of his game, healthy and happy with the first half of his NFR qualifying timeline. He won the Tuff Hedeman Fort Worth Challenge Bull Riding, which bankrolled the second half of his season.

Wright vividly remembers meeting Hedeman as a child at the NFR when he was signing autographs and then again last year at the NFR, but was excited to get the call to come to ride at a tour event.

 "Anytime Tuff Hedeman is standing by the chute, you better show up and try. It fired me up, and I knew I had to cock my hammer, show up and show out or maybe never be invited back," said Wright.

On July 31, Wright was injured in Dodge City following his 86-point ride on 4L & Diamond S Rodeo’s Last Cigarette. He returned from the broken jaw injury on August 31 in Ellensburg to ride in the saddle bronc, but not in the bull riding. Before his injury, Stetson was in the lead for bull riding and all-around in the PRCA | RAM World Standings and was ranked 16th in saddle bronc riding. He was also leading the PRCA | Resistol Rookie Standings for saddle bronc riding and bull riding.

"My hand hung in my rope, and his horn caught me underneath my helmet and broke my jaw by my chin," Wright said. "They didn't wire my jaw shut because it didn't break in the back; it was all upfront. They did have to put plates and screws in it, but it could have been a lot worse. It has not been fun (having a broken jaw) because I enjoy food, and I have had to drink everything."

 “The recovery of my jaw has been good, but it is not something I ever want to do again,” said Wright.  "It's been healing. I had to get four teeth in the bottom front of my mouth pulled because of the wreck, and I'm going to have to get some implants, I don't know when. I think I will be fine (competing). I'm just going to go out there and ride and hope for the best. I'm looking forward to getting back out there."

Wright stayed in shape by riding a bicycle, but losing 25 pounds is a challenge when your career is built on body strength.

Wright joined the PRCA in 2018. He is a graduate of Milford (Utah) High School, where he competed in football and wrestling. He enjoys ranch work when he's not on the road. Being away from home is one of the things many cowboys find challenging about the rodeo lifestyle, but for Stetson, it's a different story.

“You're around friends, and my whole family is there.”

Like most bull riders of his generation, his favorite movie is "8 Seconds," and like most brothers, he enjoys  “bothering the heck" out of Ryder while traveling. He's not old enough to gamble, so you might find him at a Sushi bar, bowling, or Top Golf while in Vegas.

2019 Highlights

All-Around

• Won the Spanish Fork (Utah) Fiesta Days Rodeo

• Won the St. Paul (Ore.) Rodeo

• Won the Dinosaur Roundup Rodeo (Vernal, Utah)

• Won the Ogden (Utah) Pioneer Days

• Won the Rodeo de Sante Fe (N.M.)

• Won the Clark County Fair & Rodeo

• Won the Pony Express Rodeo (Eagle Mountain, Utah)

• Won the Cody (Wyo.) Stampede

• Won the Oakley Independence Day Rodeo (Oakley City, Utah)

• Won the West Jordan (Utah) Western Stampede

• Won the Red Desert Roundup (Rock Springs, Wyo.)

Bull Riding

• Won the Cheyenne (Wyo.) Frontier Days

• Won the California Rodeo Salinas

• Won the Spanish Fork (Utah) Fiesta Days Rodeo

• Won the Los Fresnos (Texas) Rodeo

• Won the Dinosaur Roundup Rodeo (Vernal, Utah)

• Won the Clark County Fair & Rodeo (Logandale, Nev.)

• Won the Angelina Benefit Rodeo (Lufkin, Texas)

• Won the Pony Express Rodeo (Eagle Mountain, Utah)

• Won the Sisters (Ore.) Rodeo Xtreme Bull Riding

• Won the Oakley Independence Day Rodeo (Oakley City, Utah)

• Won the 2018 Permit Members of the Year Challenge in Las Vegas, Nev.

• Co-champion at the win at the Guymon (Okla.) Pioneer Days Rodeo

Saddle Bronc Riding

• Won the Ogden (Utah) Pioneer Days

• Won the Dinosaur Roundup Rodeo (Vernal, Utah)

• Won the Big V Feeds Pro Rodeo in McAlester, Okla.

• Won the Livermore (Calif.) Rodeo

• Won the Sheridan WYO Rodeo

NFR Bull Rider Profile - Trevor Kastner

5-time National Finals Rodeo qualifier Trevor Kastner

#Thewildcard

32-year-old Oklahoma cowboy Trevor Kastner sets one goal each year…to qualify for the National Finals Rodeo. The son of a saddle bronc rider, Kastner, is now a five-time National Finals Rodeo qualifier and among the rodeo elite athletes that will take center stage in the Thomas and Mack Arena on Thursday night.

He’s listed as an Okie on bio’s, but he should arrive wearing a Houston Texans jersey. Competing in approximately 56 rodeos this season, Kastner’s lifetime profile would indicate he likes “big time” rodeos where he rides and finishes strong. 

He seems to shine in the Lonestar state, winning not only Rodeo Houston this year, but also is a two-time winner of the Fort Worth Livestock Show and Rodeo. Riding in 56 rodeos, he won seven rodeo titles this year, earning money in 50%.

Kastner said the deep history of RODEOHOUSTON makes a championship win more rewarding for the athletes and himself.

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

Kastner enters Las Vegas as the number three ranked bull rider with total earnings this season of $149,100.17. He is now a five-time NFR qualifier, and to the NFR aficionados, he is a wild card if you are gambling on bull riding. Statistically, Kastner is even in Las Vegas odds, riding 4 out of 10 bulls all three times he has competed at the NFR.

In bull riding only competitions, he has competed on the Tuff Hedeman Bull Riding Tour and competed in PBR and CBR tours. Kastner joined PRCA in 2008 with PRCA Career Earnings of $763,996.00.

He is the reigning Rodeo Houston Champion, which came with a $58,000 check that skyrocketed him to the top of the PRCA. 

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 9 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 considered 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 with $10,000, the amount of the bonus check for qualifying and in 15th place. He ranked 15th in the average with 76 points on one head.  

Kastner’s amateur career including two Intercollegiate Rodeo Association College National Finals Rodeo qualifications in 2009-10.

NFR Bull Rider Profile - Clayton Sellars

Clayton Sellars in Las Vegas at the South Point Tuff Hedeman Bull Riding in March where he finished third..

#WELIVEITEVERYDAY

Clayton “Bo” Sellars missed the 2018 NFR by four slots, but in 2019 he buckled down and proved he was supposed to be at the back number ceremony on Wednesday night at the South Point. After an impressive season, he is the number four man on this year’s bull riding roster on opening night, where he will carry the State Flag of Florida.

Sellars, a 21-year-old bull rider from Florida now living in the cowboy capital of the World, Stephenville, Texas, earned $129,190.89 from competing in 115 rodeos. The 2018 RAM Rookie of the Year earned money in 46 or 40% of the events where he got on a bull and won five event titles.

He stays in shape, getting on and competing, including a recent stop at the Battle of the States, where he represented Texas on the winning team. The team went 5 for 5.

"The main muscle you use is in your head," Sellars said. "It's a 98 percent mental game — two percent talent. You've got to want it, and you've got to like it. It's not something you're going to do if you don't love it."

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 in December but would fall short of the money earned needed to qualify for the NFR.  This former baseball and football player finished 19th 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, and with zero school in Florida offering rodeo scholarships, he was recruited and signed with Western Texas College in Snyder, Texas, where he qualified for the College National Finals Rodeo in 2017-2018, finishing second overall in 2018 in the bull riding. He went on to graduate with a degree in Agriculture Science.