Eston bullriding competition being planned
By Jordan Parker
The second iteration of the Eston Bullarama in June is well into the planning portion.
The event will be on June 17th, 2023, and will feature world professional bullriding over one spectacular night.
“We’re well into things. Once we finish an event, we always get started planning the next one. Last year, we had our stock contractor set up before we left that yard day-of,” said committee chair Mike Tuplin.
“Last year was awesome. It was an unreal time, and no one got out of their seat before it was over.”
He says the event always brings the community together and everyone works hard to put it on.
“Our major sponsors are all in play. The committee works for hours on it, the Lady Lions do supper, and the Lions do the bar. Everyone chips in,” he said.
While Eston was part of the CCA rodeo for over 30 years, things had to change during and after COVID-19.
“We switched to bullriding for many reasons. This is our second annual, and we did it because of risk, the price of fuel, and restrictions,” he said.
“We weren’t sure what was coming, and decided to try something different. This event is outdoors, which also really helped.”
He says having events like this gets people out and gets the community together.
“It’s just before the end of school, and it’s the best time for farmers, which is basically the whole committee. People seem to really enjoy it,” he said.
“Last year we were able to kick back some money to those who helped us out, including the town, fire department and the lady Lions. That was good.”
The plan for over 40 open bullriders, five junior steers and five novices.
“Those will be local kids. We want to have local ties to Eston for novice bulls and steers. It’s a great way to get people interested locally, and get a younger generation in,” he said.
“We were impressed with the crowd last year, and can’t wait for this year as well.”
They are planning a beer garden and food, but specifics and gate prices for the event have not yet been decided.