Bull Ride Challenge goes on Saturday, rain or shine

By Glynis Crawford Smith

The Highlander

Bull riders don't mind a romp in the mud, so even if a little rain pours down on the Charley Taylor Rodeo Arena in Marble Falls, the Annual Bull Ride Challenge will be going on Saturday, May 20.

“We have contracted with Diamond Cross Rodeo Company to bring in another top-ranked bull riding event,” said Manny Trinidad, president of the Marble Falls Area Volunteer Fire Department (MFVFD). “We have 30 riders signed up, seven more than last year.”

Both pro and amateur riders are welcomed into competition and Rodeo Barrel Man Leon Coffee will keep riders safe and audiences entertained.

Only hazardous weather could interrupt the fire department fundraiser, Trinidad said.

“Events start at 6:30 p.m., but gates open at 5:30 p.m., so we tell folks to get there early for good parking and good seats,” he said. “Admission is $10 and kids five and younger get in free.”

Marble Falls High School Golf Boosters will be operating the concession stand to benefit their program, but all the other proceeds go to the MFVFD for training, equipment and scholarships.

“We netted about $8,000 last year and we gave two, $500 scholarships to Marble Falls High School Students that plan on attending first responder training,” said Trinidad. “We hope we can make that four scholarships this year.”

The department expressed gratitude for the business sponsors of the event, but Trinidad said they never turn down a new sponsor. Late arrivals of tax-deductible donations will go straight into the scholarship fund.

For more information, contact Trinidad at 512-680-1833.

Established in 1936, the MFVFD serves the unincorporated area of Emergency Service District 6 around Marble Falls and the City of Meadowlakes—123 square miles of south Burnet County.

The arena is located about one mile north of the intersection of US 281 and Texas 71 at 100 Rodeo Drive.