Different type of Cowboy Takes on World-Class NQ Cowboys Training Facility

By: Fiona New  Friday, November 1, 2024 @ 1:36 PM

 

With the PBR Australia Monster Energy Grand Finals kicking off tonight, the North Queensland Toyota Cowboys training centre will host a different type of cowboy as Australia’s top bull riders prepare for two adrenaline fuelled nights of bull riding action.

The bull riders will use the facility’s equipment for some last-minute strength training ahead of the PBR Australia Monster Energy Grand Finals, which are set to draw 10,000 fans across both the Friday and Saturday nights.

Former Cowboys player and current Broncos Tackle Coach Josh McGuire said it was a great opportunity to utilise the training facilities for other professional sports.

“This facility is designed for elite athletes, and the PBR riders are definitely that,” said Mr McGuire, who previously worked for the PBR in operations and is also the co-owner of bucking bull Mooseys After Party who will be competing tonight.

“This training centre was built to bring top sporting teams to Townsville, and it’s exciting to see it supporting all types of athletes, whether that’s football players hitting the field or bull riders facing the dirt arena.”

Mr McGuire’s bucking bull Mooseys After Party is currently ranked 4th nationally, boasting an impressive 2.3 second average ride time.

“The PBR is definitely a two-athlete sport – the riders and the bulls,” he said.

“I was thrilled to join in partnership with Keliher Bucking Bulls and MJ Bucking Bulls on Mooseys After Party – when the chance came up, I couldn’t let it pass.

“He’s a four-year-old bull that is certainly giving the riders a run for their money, and I’m looking forward to seeing how he does over the next two nights.”

PBR General Manager Glen Young emphasised that PBR Australia Monster Energy Grand Finals will be a spectacular showcase, featuring six international riders joining the best of Australia.

“Bull riding is as much a mental game as it is physical,” said Mr Young. “Especially with such a large crowd behind them, the riders need to be both physically and mentally prepared for the arena.”

“With a range of international riders who are all top of game, it is a great opportunity to make sure everyone is as prepared as possible to perform at their best.”  

The sold-out event will see riders battling for the title of 2024 PBR Australia National Champion and over $204K in prize money.

“Not only do we have incredible athletes, but our half-time performers will also put on a great show,” he said.

“Robbie Mortimer has been PBR Australia’s headline act for the 2024 PBR Australia Monster Energy Tour circuit, and we’ve also got Hayley Jensen performing on Friday night.

“The 2024 season has been one of the best yet, with riders and the bulls getting better each year.

“The competition is definitely right, and as we enter the final stretch this weekend, we can’t wait to see who will be crowned the PBR Australia Champion for 2024.”