Saddle up and join Professional Bull Riders Inc., as it comes to the Crown Arena Oct. 4 through 5 for the Fort Bragg Wounded Soldier Foundation Invitational. This event promises be an adrenalin-fueled competition between man and beast presented in bursts of 8-second thrill rides. Come see if these cowboys have what it takes to hold on for the ride of their lives while they entertain and amaze with great physical feats.

Not only are these men well-trained bull riders, they also happen to be the top 35 riders in the nation. This event comes to Fayetteville for two reasons. The first is because this is the second to last event for the riders before they compete in the World Finals. After Fayetteville, they will head to Hollywood, Fla., before the big show in Las Vegas. The second reason is, of course, for our troops. PBR Inc. is presenting the Fort Bragg Wounded Soldier Foundation Invitational, which will raise money to help soldiers who have been wounded in service to our great nation. The military has always been an important part of PBR Inc., and that tradition comes full circle with a show in the All-American City.

PBR Inc. began in 1992. A group of bull riders from the rodeo circuit understood that they were the main draw at many events and wanted a better experience with their skills. In order to do that, these men risked $1,000 each and wondered if their investment would pay off. After becoming partners with Spire Capital in New York City, they each received multi-million dollar returns on their investment and PBR Inc. became the huge source of entertainment that we all know today. Today, the company pays it forward with its goal of bringing the best up-and-coming bull riders to the mainstream.

Denise Abbott, senior director of public relations for PBR Inc. wants everyone to know that this event is not exclusive to the military, but is very much open to the general public as well.

“It’s not the rodeo,” said Abbott. “It’s eight seconds of entertainment and we are proud to have the Fort Bragg Wounded Soldier Foundation be the beneficiary.”

Also, if you are concerned about whether or not the bulls are treated humanely, Abbott said, “We treat them better than we do our riders!” PBR Inc. knows exactly where their bread is buttered. The bulls themselves are worth a lot of money and are fed a very healthy diet which includes a lot of protein. In fact, PBR Inc.’s own Bushwacker was featured in ESPN The Magazine’s July edition of “Baddest Body in Sports.”

As for the riders, they understand that it is very important to stay fit and limber. With a mix of physical maintenance including lifting weights, yoga and ballet, these athletes keep their bodies toned and their minds in peace in order to prepare for each event. Come out and see these world-class riders and bulls as they entertain in Professional Bull Riders Incorporated presents The Fort Bragg Wounded Soldier Foundation Invitational. Tickets are on sale now. For more information, call the Crown Arena at 910.438.4100.

Photo: Bushwacker, pictured above, was recently featured in ESPN The Magazine’s July edition of “Baddest Body in Sports.”