Sport
22 November, 2021
Shephard eyes off first PBR title
MAREEBA local Kurt Shephard is aiming to have his name at the top of the Australian standings after the 2021 Monster Energy PBR Australia Grand Finals this weekend in Townsville.
Kurt is currently number three in the standings going up against the toughest riders and the rankest bulls Australia has to offer.
The rider has been keeping consistent throughout this years’ competition and is hoping to take out the title for the first time this weekend.
“It would mean everything, that is every bull rider’s goal in Australia,” Kurt said.
“So, to be able to achieve that and to have my name alongside that long list of champions, that would be a great feeling for me and my family.”
With the Monster Energy PBR Australia Grand Finals fast approaching, the Mareeba sensation remains steadfast in being crowned the 2021 PBR Australia Champion, trailing current No.1 Aaron Kleier by a mere 214.33 points.
If Aaron Kleier is successful in claiming the 2021 title he would tie David Kennedy for most Australian national titles won by one rider and would make history by being the first to do so consecutively.
Despite this, Kurt Shephard isn’t letting the pressure get to him. He has finished the season inside the top 10 five times in his career, including a career-best number three finish last year.
Adding to the impressive nature of his consistency, Kurt Shephard has recorded a top-10 finish in all but one of his PBR events this year. Of those efforts, two were event wins, accompanied by three runner-up efforts.
“It’s a great feeling,” he said. “With each year, I have gained experience and you learn from mistakes.
“I am feeling great, just taking it one bull at a time and letting the chips fall where they may.”
