Hundreds of rodeo fans packed the Ag Corral on Saturday night as 30 brave cowboys from across the prairies rode 30 raging bulls at the St. Paul Bull-A-Rama.
Thirty riders were whittled down to six as fans and local business owners were given the chance to bid on the six riders in an auction-style bid-off.
After all the dust settled and the last rider rode, Tofield product Nick Olson emerged as the victor after recording an exciting 81.5 points.
Olson’s highest recorded score is 87.5 points but he maintains that anytime a rider breaks the 80s, it’s a good goal to reach.
“It feels good to get in the 80s, I guess I’m the only guy here who did that,” said Olson.
Finishing second behind Olson in the short run was Jesse Flett with a flat score of 79 points. Flett is fresh from winning the Camrose spring rodeo back with a sensational score of 85.5 points.
Marty Cockrum finished in third with 74.5 points, while the other three riders were all bucked off.
An integral part of the rodeo, the bull fighters had their hands full as several of the roaring animals refused to go along with show.
One of the two bull fighters was injured as the young fighter was fixed on the bull in front of him, all the while not noticing the second bull behind him. The bull fighter was treated by the on scene paramedics.
Rodeos have earned a bad rep from animal rights groups who label the sport as nothing more than an act of animal cruelty. People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals is one of these organizations that take a strong stance on rodeos and bull riding.
When asked about this, Olson invited naysayers to come down to the rodeo themselves and see what it is all about.
“We’re not trying to hurt the animal, we’re trying to keep the animal as athletic as possible,” said Olson.
“If you get a bull that’s been fed well and is a well-taken animal, he’s going to perform all the time for you”
The 26-year-old has suffered injuries in the past but has yet to break any bones during his career.
At the same time he understands that injuries come with the territory.
“You have to deal with that kind of stuff, you got to put it behind you and keep on riding,” said Olson.
The rodeo also featured local children looking to tame and ride wild miniature horses which delivered entertainment that was quite literally fun for the whole family.
