story by Lori O’Harver
Cowboys and cowgirls from across the United States have battled it out over the dust, mud and blood of the regular season trying to ride their way to the Texas Bronc Rider’s Association Finals. As the dust is still settling on the last qualifier, plans are underway to make the TBRA’s second annual contest for the championships an exciting one in the Texas town of Glen Rose.
Situated in between Fort Worth and Stephenville, the Somervell County Expo Center has hosted top level events of all kinds, but never an entire performance featuring only bucking horse riders. Bareback, saddle bronc, open ranch bronc riding and ladies ranch bronc riding featuring the top ten in those events are all on the card for Saturday night, September 30.
“We’ve worked hard to provide a platform for professional and non-pro contestants to have quality competitions, to attract new riders to the sport and provide scholarships and an awards program to be proud of,” said TBRA President Daryl McElroy. “Our efforts have paid off in steady growth in membership and interest from fans, media and sponsors.”
“We’re excited to offer bucking horse fans not just the best horses from Gerry Byrns Bucking Horses and Diamond Cross Rodeo Company, the cowboys showing up to compete at the finals are from the professional ranks and top contenders from the National High School Rodeo Association and National Intercollegiate Rodeo Associations. Contestants are entered from Texas, Louisiana, Oklahoma, Montana, Missouri and Virginia,” McElroy said.
“Most of the championship races will be decided at the finals,” said McElroy. “Our all-around winner, Arkansas saddle bronc and ranch bronc rider Tyler Miles mathematically can’t be beaten. He comes in with an $8,000 lead over the next closest contestant.”
“Conversely, bareback rider Josh Hudson’s $1,200 lead over the field is in jeopardy,” McElroy said. “He’ll be getting married on the day of the finals.”
“Local FFA organizations are sending teams to compete in our TBRA Steer Saddling Challenge during the performance. Afterward, everyone is invited to the premiere screening of the first episode of RIDE TV’s original series ‘Cowgirls’, featuring our ladies ranch bronc riders who’ll be on hand to sign autographs and talk to fans.”
