"Let's get it on!"
Those were the first words that came to my mind when Harve Stewart got on the back of Hootie last weekend in Baltimore. I'm not sure who was more excited--the riders or me.
As I've told all of you before: I am lucky enough to get the chance to cover a lot of different sports, but, as we all know, there's just something about bull riding that draws you in.
After what seemed like an eternity we all convened on the East Coast on New Year's Day and immediately the talk amongst my colleagues and fans I spoke with was, "Can Guilherme repeat as World Champion?"
And get used to it! The talk is going to continue all season long for two reasons: First, he definitely CAN repeat, and second, as Baltimore proved, he's 3-for-3 and has no intention of allowing any rust, mold, dust or any other "matter" collect on his stellar riding style.
In my humble opinion, 2009 could be a season for the ages.
I was excited to finally meet and speak with J.B. Mauney's dad. He made a point of telling me that J.B. has realized what's important to him and that it's been fun to see him "grow up" over the past couple years--and realize how great he can be.
Here, here!
Just take a look at the Ford Championship Round in Baltimore. The usual suspects were present as were a number of guys that could factor into the mix throughout the year.
I was sorry to hear Chris Shivers was not taking part in the short go, but he smartly took Dr. Tandy Freeman's advice and put "long-term goals" ahead of immediate gains.
I'm also hoping that Valdiron is back soon. It was a saddening sight to see him taken out of the arena at the end of the night (after most of the crowd had gone home) on a stretcher with a C-collar on.
The word of the weekend for me was "family."
Our TV crew is like a family and the riders are an extended part of that. With the holidays winding down, it seemed fitting to bring us all together to start what is sure to be a great year.
I look forward to seeing a lot of you out on the road this season and, as always, if I say something stupid or incorrect during the telecast – there's no one to blame but myself – but, at least, I've got a great group of talented co-workers around me to cover my mistakes! Thank goodness for Justin McKee, Ty Murray, Justin McBride, J.W. Hart, G-Man--Michael Gaffney and Leah!!
Happy New Year everybody!!
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Thanks for the blog! I'm glad to have you all back.
I am SO excited by the start of the new season, not even the news that NBC would have day two in B'more could ruin the mood! Seriously, though, someone needs to give NBC a clue--we don't expect them to do the great job VS does, but they could show important rides--I mean, if the guy gets into the short go on that ride, it needs to be shown!! And it seems like that happens every time, they leave out one of the crucial rides. Did again in B'more.
But--wow--the PBR is BACK! Good luck and God bless, guys...rooting for everyone, and sometimes even for the bulls! Stay safe--especially you bullfighters!
The PBR--for a lot of reasons, but also because every man looks better in a cowboy hat!
tidioutefan
northcentral PA
Thanks for taking the time to post for us!! We really appreciate it. I for one, am so happy that you are announcing the events. You are the best the PBR has had as far as "main announcer" with the exception of Justin McKee. When you Justin, Ty, JW, and Justin McBride get to going it is the best entertainment ever!! Keep up the good work!
I want to add a comment to one you made Sat. night in New York, about J. W.I couldn't agree more that as much as we love Ty, J.W. is VERY entertaining as a commentator. His analysis is unique and very FUNNY. I wish he was on all the time as I like the lighter banter. Keep up the good work!!
I was just wondering what happend to Shorty's picks on the TV telecasts. It was one of my favorite segments and I haven't seen it once this year. I'm I just leaving the room at the wrong time??