Championship Bull Riding Readies Jackson, Tennessee for the Season Opener

JACKSON, Tenn. - Jan. 6, 2015 - PRLog -- The undisputed number one bull rider in the world, 20 year old, CBR and PRCA World Champion Sage Steele Kimzey is set to ride in the CBR season opener, the Bud light Bull Riding Classic presented by Alan Vines Automotive at the Oman Arena in Jackson, Tennessee.  On January 16, bull riding fans will have the rare opportunity to see in action the #1 bull rider in the world that less than thirty days ago broke rodeo records at the National finals Rodeo. “Kimzey is a rare talent who rides fundamentally flawless," said Tuff Hedeman, the 4 time world Champion who now produces the nationally televised Mahindra Road to Cheyenne Tour events.
“He puts forth incredible effort each time he pulls his rope,” continued Hedeman.  With 30 years of bull riding history on his resume, Tuff Hedeman is one of the most recognizable cowboys in the history of rodeo, but he defers to the young super star that is currently the CBR and PRCA World Champion as the best bull riding talent he has seen in over 15 years. The former 4 time world titled Hedeman, who in  recent years has he has made a name for himself in the production of great bull riding events, will arrive in Jackson next week for the two night bull riding extravaganza which begins Friday, January 16th at 8:00 pm and continues on Saturday night January 17th. The doors open each night at 6:00 pm with the Oman concourse filled with great shopping, products and autograph opportunities.
This year’s event in Jackson has not only attracted  the #1 ranked Kimzey, but the roster features three former world champions and several of the most talented bull riders on the professional tours today including:.2012 World Champion Josh Barentine from Johnson City, La.,, CBR World Champ Cole Echols, Frierson, La., 2012 PRCA Word Champion Cody Teel from Kounzte, Tex., 2-time 2014 NFR round winner from Dallas, Aaron Pass, and local Tennessee super talent Corey Bailey of Paris.
This year’s event is the fourth stop on the Mahindra Championship Bull Riding’s (CBR) Road to Cheyenne Tour which pits the industry’s elite riders against the best bulls in a three round tournament style action. This year’s intermission entertainment will feature the 4 time pro rodeo entertainer of the Year, Whiplash, the cowboy monkey.
There are no guarantees in bull riding; the only way for cowboys to earn a paycheck is to ride better than the rest of the 24-man field.  The field of competition which starts with 24 riders, then 12 and finally 4 in the Shoot Out where they will battle for the lion’s share of $30,000 in prize money. The night’s excitement will culminate as the final four bull riders will get a third opportunity to ride in a winner take all ending. The format appeals to new spectators and established fans alike because riders can challenge as many as three bulls in one performance.
 In addition to lucrative prize money, bull riders accumulate points which qualify them for the World Finals, part of the legendary Cheyenne Frontier Days celebration held Wyoming next July. At the end of the World Finals, the contestant who has the most points will be crowned the world champion and receive a $100,000 bonus.
 The Jackson event will also feature the “other side of the ride”, CBR’s Million Dollar Bull Team Challenge. Bull owners from all around the country will bring three bulls that are featured during the first two rounds of competition. The bulls are competing for points based on their performance in the arena. Additionally, the time the bull rider stays on is added to the bull’s score. At the end of the night, the owner with the three highest-scoring bulls will receive $25,000.
CBR has become known for their action-packed performances that keep fans on the edge of their seats and with a new show debuting in Jackson, this year’s Bud Light Classic is set to impress. From having great bulls matched up with super star riders, to upbeat music and enthusiastic fans there is something for everyone at this year's bull Riding.
Activities begin on Friday, Jan 16th with a meet and greet at Bumpus Harley from noon-2 pm.  Bull riders will also be live at Alan Vines Automotive on Saturday between noon and 2 pm for fans to stop and get an autograph. Advance tickets are available at dirtroadtickets.com or Bumpus Harley at 326 Carriage House Drive. Prices start at $22 with a variety of options available. WEBSITES:  dirtroadtickets.com, cbrbull.com, whiplashthecowboymonkey.com

Event Location: Oman Arena, 179 Lane Avenue, Jackson, Tennessee.
For interviews, press credentials and more information please contact Leigh Ann Schroeder at 940.902.1112 or leighann@theshortround.com