An estimated 4000 people walked through the Marrabel Rodeo gates and according to the Marrabel Rodeo Committee numbers are up this year.

The 2008 Marrabel Bull Ride was held on Saturday March 1, in conjunction with the Bundaberg Rum Touring Pro Series – Professional Bull Riders.

Marrabel Bull Ride is the only SA event on the PBR touring Pro, giving South Australians a chance to see the cream of the crop competing for the big prize.

The night started with an introduction to all riders, which included riders from throughout Australia who were competing in the touring series, on mean, heart thumping bulls.

Being a PBR event it meant serious action and strong competition from the riders, giving spectacular entertainment for the crowd.

Major sponsors for the night were Marrabel Hotel, Blue Dog Jeans, Bundaberg Rum, South Coast Garages, Lyndoch Motors and Mighty M.

Stock contractors for the night were Frank Biddle from QLD and Ron Woodall, Lyons VIC, both contractors supplied fit and fierce athletes, challenging all riders.

Announcer for the evening was Warren Matotek along with judges Andy Gay and Don Childs and the all important protection clowns for the evening were Tom Wreford from Queensland and Richard Butler from New South Wales.

According to many the ‘big screen’ was a hit, especially for those who were unable to see the action, the replay in slow motion to show the riders ability and where he scored the points gave the crowd an insight into what bull riding is really like and according to Marrabel Committee Member John Browne it is the first time a big screen has been used outside at a bull ride.

The big screen is likely to come back in 2009 due to the exceptional feedback it gained.

The action didn’t stop after the bull riding, with live band Barking Ants, the crowd were dancing, singing, ranting and raving until the excitement finished in the early hours of Sunday morning.

A huge breakfast was supplied on the Sunday morning, with the first egg and bacon sandwich being served just after dawn.

Local community groups got behind the event and raised money for their organisation, they included The Gums Pony Club, tennis and cricket clubs and St Johns School in Eudunda.

Michael Cross, Bundaberg QLD, won the event with two scoring rides taking home $3050, Jock Connolly, Townsville QLD, came in at second taking home $2500 and Jamie Hasted, Roma QLD placed third scoring in both rides and took home $1200.

Prize money was awarded to tenth place, with a total prize pool of $11,100.