Now that large outdoor gathering restrictions have been lifted, events are being rescheduled and people are thrilled. Professional Bull Riding was one of the many events the pandemic closed down in 2020, and now the popular event is back in Kearney.

Better In The Saddle Equine Assisted Programs is bringing their annual bull riding event back to Kearney this summer. The event is scheduled for Friday and Saturday, July 30 and 31 at Jesse James Park.

The bull ride is run by Amped Up Productions, and proceeds will go to help Better In The Saddle to meet the physical and psychological needs of people with disabilities and youth at risk with the aid of specially selected and trained horses. Better In The Saddle helps individuals from young kids to adults in their 50’s and 60’s to strengthen their bodies and minds by developing physical, mental and emotional capabilities through interaction with certified instructors, coaches, specially trained equine and dedicated volunteers.

“I would offer an invitation to anybody to come watch that process that a horse has with those people. It’s amazing,” reflected program leader Jay Bettis on Kearney Live. “The horse’s heart will heal anything. It’s not only good for the riders, but good for the people who volunteer.”

The entire bull riding event is a family-friendly experience which has food, music and lots of bucking action. On Saturday, July 31, from 10 am to noon, bull riders will be at Orscheln Farm and Home in Kearney to meet and greet and sign autographs for fans.

The evening activities start with mutton bustin’ at 6:30 pm for young kids. Signups for that begin at 6 pm at the announcer’s stand. For older and braver cowboys there’s mini bull riding. After that the professional bull riders come out to compete at 7:30 pm.

The Optimist Club of Kearney will be in the arena providing food and drinks. On Saturday night after the bull ride, local country artist Michael Neal will perform a free concert with his band.

Gates open at 5 pm on Friday and Saturday and tickets to get in are only $10 for adults; kids 6 and under get in free.

KPGZ News - Brian Watts contributed to this story