Would you do this for $26,230.29?

Recently, I had a continuing education in Las Vegas. It happen to be the week of the National Finals Rodeo. The strip was electric as always but with a "howdy" kind of environment.

The CE that was being put on was with the National Auctioneer Association. If you know many people in that trade, you'll realize that most of them are salt of the earth people who have chosen the unique business of auctioneer/marketing. Some of the best friends I have have come from my relationship with this trade organization.

Since we were in Vegas during the week of the NFR; we had to get tickets. We show up at the Thomas Mack stadium at 6:15 excited about the opening events at 6:45. If you've gone to a rodeo, you'll appreciate the excitement and anticipation of the cowboys and cowgirls participating in difficult and dangerous sport activities. While bareback and saddle bronc are two dangerous events, I would say that the world agrees that the bull riding is the most dangerous. Sitting in the stands, watching the best of the best, I realized the complexity of this sport. First, you're sitting on a 2000 lbs + animal, second your holding onto him with a skinny bull rope, third, you're graded on 8 seconds a pure power, and finally, once your off, either by your on choice or the bulls, usually he is ready to plow you over; so you better run like heck to the gates. That night it was amazing with on a few of the athletes not making the 8 seconds. In the end, Round 10, Trey Benton III rode Mortimer (Bull) for 8 seconds and won $26,230.77. Roscoe Jarboe came in second and cashed in $20,73077 while Tim Bingham made 3rd with $13,236.92
Thats big money, but Tuf Cooper from Weatherford, Texas won the All Round Championship yielding him $341,560.29

 I realized with money like that, this isn't any hobby. Its a way for someone to make a pot of money and most likely gain sponsorships for the pants you wear, the hat you're wearing  and I am  certain the list goes on.

While in Vegas, I had the opportunity to spend time with my close friends Dan Pate, of Pate Auctions, Curt Pate with Curt Pate Stockman, and his wife  Tammy Pate. These friends are pure Montanas and bring a southern boy into the world of livestock, rodeo and western lifestyle. They are all high on my friend list!

The question I'd ask you is "would you ride a bull for $26,230.29? My seat in the stands was very comfortable. I think you'll get my answer!