Championship Bull Riding returns to Hub City for 20th year

JACKSON, Tenn. — Saturday was the final day for the Bud Light Classic bull riding competition at the Oman Arena. For the 20th year, West Tennessee has shown up in high numbers for the Championship Bull Riding competition.

“This is the 5th year for Championship Bull Riding to be here,” Championship Bull Riding CEO Benny Kude said. “We’re proud to be here. The Oman Arena is a great place.”

Thousands of West Tennesseans filled the arena to watch the bull riders compete for $30,000 in prizes.

“I think it’s pretty cool,” fan Thomas Reed said. “These guys work their tails off all year long. It’s pretty cool that they can come to a little small town like this.”

The goal for each rider is to hold on for at least eight seconds, which isn’t an easy task. The crowd erupted as UT Martin graduate Jeff Askey held on, earning 90 points in the first round.

“It’s fun, family entertainment,” fan Caleb Thomas said. “What else could you want on a Saturday night, especially since it’s raining. Don’t need to sit at home and watch TV. You can get out and be a part of West Tennessee.”

Many say they are happy this competition comes to the Hub City each year.

“Jackson and all the surrounding areas comes out and they support Championship Bull Riding,” Kude said. “It’s one of our favorite places to be. You can’t beat the Oman Arena.”

There were 25 bull riders from eight states competing.

Askey won $13,500 competing Saturday night.

Following Saturday’s competition, country singer Jason Pritchett hit the stage to entertain the crowd.