This weekend the toughest sport on dirt is heading to the beef city, with the nation’s best bull riders touching down for two nights of action.
The Great Western Hotel will host the PBR Monster Energy Rockhampton Invitational this Friday and Saturday night – with some of the biggest names in bull-riding heading to CQ.
PBR Australia general manager Glen Young says riders will be laying it all on the line to get a spot on the PBR Origin side.
“This event is one of the final opportunities for riders to amass vital points before the Origin series,” Mr Young said.
“Rockhampton has been a cornerstone of our PBR circuit for years, with its electric atmosphere and the unwavering support from the local community,” he said.
With northern and north western Queensland, the home of so many of our great bull riders, battling floods right now, we hope the Rocky event can bring a slight respite in some way.”
Mr Young said the last time PBR was on in Rocky, the crowd adored Diego Galdino Dos Santos – and the crowd will be keen to see him do it again.
“With Rockynats revving up the city, it’s the perfect time to experience the toughest 8 seconds in sports,” Mr Young said.
A local legend ready to claim his spot is Rocky boy Caiden Sandilands, keen to ride on his home turf.
“The crowd is awesome in Rockhampton, and it’s great to be able to ride in front of a hometown crowd. It’s a highlight to make the Origin team, and my goal is to make Origin, make the Grand Finals, and get a good riding percentage happening,” Sandilands said.
The top five as it stands include Mareeba’s Kurt Shepard, Calliope’s Ben Bode, Bungendore’s Jack Brodrick, Bungundarra’s Thomas Triplett and Matheus Lima Rodrigues.
Fans can expect eight-second battles, edge-of-your-seat action, and a showdown that will have the entire crowd roaring as riders chase crucial points on the PBR Australia circuit.
Gates open at 5.30pm Friday and Saturday. For tickets head to www.pbraustralia.com.au.
