File photo from the PBR Classic in North Battleford, July 2022. (File photo/Marty Martinson)

By Teena Monteleone

bull riding

Organizers hoping for another record turnout at national PBR event

Jul 26, 2023 | 12:00 PM

The Canadian Touring Pro Division of PBR makes a stop in North Battleford Thursday night with some of the best riders and meanest bulls on the circuit including Wild Hoggs Bucking Bulls’ ‘Al Capone’.

“They’ll definitely put a show on for the crowd. You stay on them [the bulls] you get a lot of points,” said Corey Chmelnyk, director of the event. “Probably the best bull in Canada right now and shooting for the best bull of the year is ‘Built Tough’ from Thompson Rodeo Livestock and he’ll be here.”

The event has been held in North Battleford the last eight years, but two years ago it was renamed to the McDonald’s Colby Cave Memorial Classic PBR in honor of Cave – an NHL player from North Battleford who passed away in 2020 at the age of 25.

“He loved the PBR and came to it every year and his family is awesome, so we decided to throw his name in there and give part of the proceeds to the Colby Cave Foundation which helps support youth hockey groups in the area,” Chmelnyk said.

Funds are also donated to Ronald McDonald House and Battlefords Trade and Education.

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The event will feature bull riders from both Canada and the United States. Chmelnyk said there may even be a rider or two from Mexico and Brazil.

“It’s a pro event and these guys just freshly came from the Calgary Stampede. These riders are at all the big events across North America. So, it’s 25 of the best riders and bulls out there.”

Dakota Buttar from Kindersley will be competing for the $15,000 purse. He won the Calgary Stampede last year. Also attending will be well-known bull rider Cody Coverchuk from Meadow Lake.

“All their points off these events get them closer to the world finals and that’s what these bull riders are working towards,” said Chmelnyk. “As soon as it starts, it’s non-stop action. So, this event is very professional and keeps you on the edge of your seat the whole night.”

Last year saw a record turnout for the event and organizers are expecting the same Thursday night at the Access Communications Centre. Tickets for the PBR are available at Austin’s Saddlery or at the door.

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cjnbnews@pattisonmedia.com

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