Sport
5 July, 2022
Shepard ready to rumble in PBR
MAREEBA’S Kurt Shepard has returned from injury strong and ready to rumble with the upcoming PBR Cairns Invitational set to crash into the Cairns Convention Centre once more on 16 July.
In just over three weeks, riders will go-head-to-head to determine the supreme bull riding powerhouse, with the Cairns Invitational also set to mark Shephard’s first big event since a neck injury earlier in the year.
Mr Shephard started the season off strong prior to his injury and made his comeback at the Rockhampton Invitational two weeks ago, before competing in the Mount Isa Invitational last weekend where he placed fifth.
“I rode two bulls on the weekend in Mount Isa - it just feels really good to be back,” Mr Shephard said.
“As far as physical fitness, I feel really good each bull I get on, the better I feel.
“I'm confident that I can get back to riding as good as I was, but I definitely need to step up and get the job done at each event I go to.”
With crucial bonus points up for grabs at the Cairns Invitational, Mr Shephard is hoping to leverage off his home advantage to pull off an event win and surge him back in the race for the coveted championship title in November.
“Cairns has got such a great atmosphere, it’s a cool little convention centre and they pack it all out and it’s such a good vibe,” Mr Shepard said.
“You can’t help but lift to the next level in that kind of atmosphere.
“It’s always a favourite of mine, I seem to ride good there for that reason. I can’t wait.”
PBR General Manager, Glen Young, says the event is always a rousing success, and with international borders now open, they’re looking forward to bringing back some international flavour.
“Considered as one of Australia’s top tourist locations, Cairns would have to be one of the most picturesque locations where we stage a PBR event,” says Mr Young.
“Cairns has always embraced the event and we are proud that this is one of our key destination events for PBR fans worldwide.
“With only fourth months separating the PBR Monster Energy Tour Cairns Invitational and the PBR Monster Energy Tour Grand Finals, riders will be competing for vital points and over $30,000 in prize money in Cairns.
“We’re looking forward to bringing the PBR back to Cairns again and seeing who takes out the event win.”
