Here we go again, right? Yep, you got it. PBR stands for Professional Bull Riders of course. Headquartered in Colorado, this organization was created in 1992 when a group of visionary riders broke away from traditional rodeos in order to feature and promote the sport of professional bull riding. They felt it was America’s original extreme sport and could stand on its own without the rest of the rodeo events.
And they were right! Since its inception, attendance at live events has climbed from 310,000 to over 1.5 million with 90,000 people attending the World Finals alone. Thirty-four of the events are televised in 84 countries and have a viewership of over 500 million households. After just fourteen seasons, the annual prize money has grown to more than $10 million. Not bad at all.
So how do you join the other 1200 bull riders who are already members of the PBR? Fill out an application, pay your $350 and you’re all set for a riding permit that will allow you to participate in PBR sanctioned events. Earn more than $2500 in prize money and you qualify for full cardholder membership. Now I know that sounds simple and that part of it is. However I left one thing out. You must also be able to ride a 2000 pound angry bull who doesn’t want you hanging on to his back with just one hand. The PBR recommends a reputable bull riding school unless you’re already very experienced and all the latest in protective gear.
I do too since part of their organization is the Rider Relief Fund. This is something that was set up because professional bull riding is a fierce, grueling and downright dangerous sport. Yes, you really can get killed or maimed while participating so think carefully before you decide to take this up and make sure you know what you’re doing.
Wondering why I’m yammering about this today? Because there is a PBR event in Reading this weekend. It’s at the Sovereign Center this Friday and Saturday at 7:30, both days. Anyone want to go with me?
And they were right! Since its inception, attendance at live events has climbed from 310,000 to over 1.5 million with 90,000 people attending the World Finals alone. Thirty-four of the events are televised in 84 countries and have a viewership of over 500 million households. After just fourteen seasons, the annual prize money has grown to more than $10 million. Not bad at all.
So how do you join the other 1200 bull riders who are already members of the PBR? Fill out an application, pay your $350 and you’re all set for a riding permit that will allow you to participate in PBR sanctioned events. Earn more than $2500 in prize money and you qualify for full cardholder membership. Now I know that sounds simple and that part of it is. However I left one thing out. You must also be able to ride a 2000 pound angry bull who doesn’t want you hanging on to his back with just one hand. The PBR recommends a reputable bull riding school unless you’re already very experienced and all the latest in protective gear.
I do too since part of their organization is the Rider Relief Fund. This is something that was set up because professional bull riding is a fierce, grueling and downright dangerous sport. Yes, you really can get killed or maimed while participating so think carefully before you decide to take this up and make sure you know what you’re doing.
Wondering why I’m yammering about this today? Because there is a PBR event in Reading this weekend. It’s at the Sovereign Center this Friday and Saturday at 7:30, both days. Anyone want to go with me?
1 comment:
OMG, hon, I LOVE rodeos and bull riding, though the entire sport is very violent and extremely dangerous.
I hate to say it, but damn, it's exciting. And those cowboys...holy cow, they are tough guys, I tell you.
If only I were closer!
Hugs
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