Twenty thrill seekers visited Airdrie last week.
The brave souls were at the Airdrie Pro Rodeo grounds on Aug. 19 for the third annual Get Bucked event, where amateur competitors had the opportunity to immerse themselves in the dangers of bull riding.
The event, which is hosted by Joe Messina of Fantasy Adventure Bull Riding and acts as a lead-in for the Calgary Police Rodeo, offers everyday people the chance to participate in one of the world’s most dangerous sports.
“It was a huge success,” Messina said. “It really was a great turnout. It doesn’t matter if you’re in Las Vegas riding for $1 million, or an amateur competing – the risk is the same, so give those riders a big pat on the back.”
Get Bucked also raises money for the Missing Children’s Society of Canada. Messina said that although the numbers were not yet finalized, he expected it to be a large figure.
And although only three riders stayed on for the full eight seconds, with five qualified rides total, Messina, a native Australian, said he has already received plenty of positive feedback from his former students and competitors for the rare opportunity.
Four of the riders have already asked him about potentially pursuing a professional bull riding career.
“They were ecstatic with the experience and I’m overwhelmed by the response I got from everyone expressing their gratitude,” he said. “It’s a pretty damn good feeling and I’m happy. I’m glad we’re able to offer this unique event.”
Messina said his biggest fear of this type of amateur event – injuries – were a non-issue this year.
“The safety of the riders is my biggest concern,” he said. “It was a huge success in all facets this year and it will be bigger and better next year.”
