the mommy avenger

Last night, our family had the pleasure of attending the first night of PBR: Unleash the Beast at the Delta Center in Salt Lake City. For those unfamiliar, PBR stands for Professional Bull Riders, a premier bull riding organization that showcases the top athletes in the sport. The Unleash the Beast series is PBR’s elite tour, featuring the world’s best riders competing for points to qualify for the PBR World Finals. The season spans for 23 weeks, culminating in the World Finals held in Texas.

Bull riding is a thrilling sport where riders aim to stay atop a bucking bull for eight seconds. Scoring is based on a 100-point scale, with 50 points allocated for the rider’s performance and 50 for the bull’s effort. Judges assess factors such as the rider’s control and style, as well as the bull’s agility and power. A high score indicates an exceptional ride by both athlete and animal. Hearing about each rider last night, I heard them say there were only a handful who get a score of 90 and that was considered a Monster Ride.

This two-day event is a spectacle of excitement and showmanship. Each night begins with an invocation and the National Anthem, setting a respectful and patriotic tone. The atmosphere is electric, filled with anticipation as riders prepare to face some of the toughest bulls in the circuit.

We attended the event last year and were instantly hooked. The combination of raw athleticism, danger, and entertainment made it an unforgettable experience. This year, we were eager to return, bringing along the rest of our family who had never witnessed bull riding or even a rodeo before. Their excitement was palpable, and we couldn’t wait to share this uniquely American tradition with them.

The evening was filled with numerous highlights. The opening ceremony was a moving tribute to our nation, with a stirring rendition of the National Anthem that had everyone on their feet, hats over hearts. The sense of community and patriotism was overwhelming, reminding us all of the shared values that bind us together. Flames and fireworks erupted and the event began.

The competition itself was fierce and exhilarating. Riders showcased incredible skill and bravery, each attempting to conquer bulls known for their power and unpredictability. The crowd was on the edge of their seats, erupting into cheers and gasps with each ride.

The audience definitely had a favorite: local bull rider Keyshawn Whitehorse. Hailing from McCracken Spring, Utah, Keyshawn is a proud member of the Navajo Nation and was the 2018 PBR Rookie of the Year. His ride was a part of the team competition and the arena exploded with pride and support for their hometown hero. It was a powerful reminder of the personal stories and dedication behind each rider’s journey.

There were so many riders, aging from age 19 to 40, each with their own unique backstory that I would love to know. Many hailing from all over the United States, Australia, and Brazil. I really enjoyed seeing Boudreaux Campbell of Texas, the 2020 PRB Rookie of the Year, as well as Joao Ricardo Vieira, a 40 year old athlete from Brazil, who had to attempt 3 different bulls to get his ride in and succeeded in his 8 second ride.

What makes PBR events particularly special is their family-friendly atmosphere. Even those unfamiliar with bull riding can appreciate the spectacle, the athleticism, and the stories of perseverance. Those in our family new to the event, initially unsure of what to expect, found themselves swept up in the excitement, cheering alongside us and marveling at the sheer spectacle of it all.

The event also featured entertaining interludes, including performances by rodeo clowns and interactive segments that engaged the audience. These moments provided a delightful respite between the intense rides and added a layer of fun that appealed to all ages.

As the night drew to a close, we left the Delta Center with hearts full of excitement and pride. The PBR: Unleash the Beast event is more than just a competition; it’s a celebration of courage, skill, and American heritage. Whether you’re a longtime fan or a newcomer, it’s an experience that resonates deeply and leaves a lasting impression.

Reflecting on the evening, we’re already looking forward to next year’s event. It’s become a cherished tradition for our family, a time to come together and celebrate a sport that embodies the spirit of determination and resilience. If you’ve never attended a PBR event, I highly recommend it. It’s an unforgettable experience that offers something for everyone, and it’s a testament to the enduring appeal of this remarkable sport.

We can’t wait to saddle up and do it all over again next year! But if you are in Salt Lake City, there is still time to see one more night of exciting competition. You can get your tickets here. Also, be sure to check out PBR’s website for the latest standings and upcoming events throughout the country.

^{*we were invited to facilitate a feature, all opinions are our own*}