Tenth Annual Bull Bash bucks for kids

BRADENTON -- Twenty of the top bull riders from the Southern States Bull Riding Association will buck themselves into one of four places at Bull Bash 2009, presented by Diamond W Rodeo.

 
This family friendly event benefits the Foundation for Dreams’ ”Dream Oaks Camp“ for mentally and physically challenged children.

Jason Wade rides Skunk at the NInth annual Bull Bash Championship.

But bull riders better beware of Black Stinger -- a bull with an attitude -- who will be waiting in the ring at 7:30 p.m. Saturday at the Manatee Civic Center. Doors open at 6:30 p.m.

 
It’s the 10th Annual Bull Bash championship, and Doug Walker, the president of Diamond W Rodeo, is expecting a packed house.

 
”This is going to be great fun for the whole family,“ he said. ”World-famous rodeo clown Tim the ÔWild Thang’ and world-champion bull fighter Ross Hill will be at the rodeo.“

 
Walker, who calls himself the ”Bull Guy,“ knows firsthand what it’s like to be on the back of a bull. He started his rodeo business after being thrown from the back of a bull 11 years ago. That accident left him paralyzed from the neck down.
 
Although he can walk with the aid of a forearm crutch, he won’t be riding the bulls. He said he leaves the most dangerous eight seconds in pro sports to the top-ranked professional bull riders.
 
”The most dangerous part of bull riding is getting your hand hung in the rope and then dragged around by the bull,“ Walker said.
 
Getting stepped on by a bull can lead to serious injury and even death.

Donnie Newman rides Black Stinger at last year's event.

 
”Some bulls naturally like to buck,“ Walker said. ”But we like to take good care of our bulls, give them the best food and treat them great.“

 
Walker was moved to donate a portion of the proceeds from his rodeo events to the Foundation for Dreams organization to help make a difference in the lives of children who are affected by mental and physical handicaps.
 
As an handicapped adult, he understands their challenges.
 
”Well, I got a love for rodeo and bull riding, and when I couldn’t ride I still wanted to be involved and also donate to handicapped kids,“ Walker said.

Doug Walker is the president of Diamond W Rodeo.

Walker remembers all the people who donated and helped him when he had his accident, and he now gives back to help bring happiness to the children’s lives.
 
The Foundation for Dreams and ”Dream Oaks Camp“ is at 3938 State Road 64 E. in Bradenton. 
 
It was founded by Eddie Mulock after he saw the plight of many children with disabilities and chronic illnesses. Its mission is to provide fun, educational, and recreational experiences in an outdoor camp environment to enhance the lives of children ages 7 to 17 who are dealing with disabilities and serious illnesses. 
 
A portion of the proceeds from the rodeo will benefit the camp. 

 
Tickets are $20 for adults and $10 for children ages 5-12. Children under 4 get in free.
 
For more information, call the Manatee Civic Center at 722-3244.
 
People who watch the professional cowboys will hear country music, see a pyrotechnic show and watch 40 bulls. Bull riders will be judged on their ability to control, good positioning and the level of difficulty of the bull ride.
 
”I like to call it the greatest show on dirt,“ Walker said.