The top three 2007 performers—Justin McBride, J.B. Mauney and Guilherme Marchi—hit the magical eight mark at just over 60 percent. Most remaining riders are under 50 percent. This is a good benchmark—an attainable, but difficult target.

McBride enjoys a dream season. He established records for tour wins and is the leading all-time tour winner at more than $3.5 million. A successful Vegas run could make him the world’s first $2 million cowboy for one season.

Watch how riders try to wrap their legs around the midsection and maintain a sense of gravity. They react quickly to the sudden movements of the bull. But it can all go sour in a half-second. Many riders fall after seven seconds, but just before eight. McBride was trying to wire the field for the regular season, but Mauney made a strong late-season charge. Their battle—the proven pro versus the 2006 rookie of the year and perhaps the next face of the PBR—should be tremendous.

By Dave Bontempo

Casino Connection Sports Editor Dave Bontempo is an award-winning sports writer and broadcaster who calls boxing matches all over the world. He has covered the Philadelphia Flyers in the playoffs, as well as numerous PGA, LPGA and Seniors Golf Tour events, and co-hosted the Casino Connection television program with Publisher Roger Gros.

Please login to post your comments.