Cory Rasch Invitational Xtreme Bulls event coming up at F&M Bank Arena in Clarksville

Professional bull riding, live music and high-energy entertainment will return to F&M Bank Arena on Saturday, Oct. 24, for the Cory Rasch Invitational Xtreme Bulls event, featuring top bull riders competing against some of the sport’s toughest bulls.

The annual event will bring the excitement of professional bull riding to downtown Clarksville, with roaring crowds, dramatic rides, pyrotechnics and a new attraction for younger fans: Mutton Bustin’.

Hometown bull rider brings rodeo to Clarksville

The event was created by Cory Rasch, a Clarksville native, firefighter and former professional bull rider who turned his rodeo experience into an annual entertainment production.

After graduating from Clarksville High School, Rasch earned a full rodeo scholarship to Hill Junior College in Hillsboro, Texas. He turned professional at age 18, reached the Professional Bull Riders finals in 2001 at age 21 and qualified for the world finals seven times.

Professional competition with championship implications

This year’s invitational is sanctioned by the Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association (PRCA), meaning competitors’ earnings can count toward qualification for the National Finals Rodeo, coming up this December in Las Vegas.

“Some of the top guys in the world will be here – guys who will be competing in the National Finals Rodeo in December,” Rasch said.

The sanctioning adds significance for riders seeking to advance in the sport while giving local fans an opportunity to watch elite competitors in a professional setting. It also gives competitors added stakes, with a $35,000 prize up for grabs.

The rodeo in Clarksville will be broadcast this year on the Cowboy Channel.

New Mutton Bustin’ for young riders, plus live music

New this year, Mutton Bustin’ will give younger participants an opportunity to experience a rodeo-style ride of their own. Children attempt to stay aboard sheep in a scaled-down version of the challenge faced by professional bull riders.

Before the main competition, country artist Lawson Harris will perform in the arena, adding live music to the evening’s entertainment. Following the Clarksville event, Harris will head to Argentina for a performance at the U.S. Embassy.

There will be several giveaways, including a belt buckle for Fan of the Night, along with Dan Post boots. Plus, a collection will be taken up to support Camp Rainbow, a summer camp for children with medical needs. “Without the sponsors and local businesses in Clarksville, this event wouldn’t be possible,” Rasch said.

How to get your tickets

Cory Rasch Invitational Xtreme Bulls will be Saturday, Oct. 24. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. and the event starts at 7:30. For tickets and more details, go to the Cory Rasch Invitational page on Ticketmaster.