Canadian rodeo star wins Xtreme Bulls event in New Jersey

FORT ST. JOHN, B.C. — Local rodeo professional Jake Gardner took the victory in the second night of Cowtown Rodeo’s Xtreme Bulls event in Woodstown Pilesgrove, New Jersey on August 13th.

The event was sanctioned by the Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association (PRCA).

Riding a bull named Ridin’ Solo, Gardner pulled off a score of 91 in the finals.  He took a point total of 178 from two rides and netted $3,635.

Gardner spoke to Energeticcity.ca about his latest victory, which capped off a wild few days where he saw action in British Columbia and on both American coasts.

“When you’re doing what you love, it doesn’t matter the time and effort and and the long miles that go into it,” said Gardner. “When I signed up for this, when I decided to try and make the National Finals Rodeo, I knew it was going to be hard.”

“You just kind of prepare your brain mentally and tell yourself, no matter what happens, you’re going to give it your best and never quit.”

Ranked 29th in the world, Gardner has earned $64,818.92 throughout the 2024 season according to PRCA’s website.

But with performances in Dawson Creek at the annual Exhibition and Stampede and Omak, Washington, he’s earned $11,000 so far this month.

“I just need to keep a good attitude and and keep being positive,” said Gardner. “I knew I had to make up some ground to try and get back in the standings where I want to be,”

Gardner will be back in action Wednesday evening in Caldwell, Idaho, for the Rodeo Night Breakaway event.

Visit PRCA’s website for more details about the 2024 season.