By Tiffany Williams –
As the PBR (Professional Bull Riders) Pendleton Whisky Velocity Tour event kicked off on Friday evening at the Total Mortgage Arena in Bridgeport, Connecticut, the competition was fierce. Grayson Cole, hailing from New Ringgold, Pennsylvania, and Dawson Gleaves from Amarillo, Texas, showcased their skills and determination, tying for the Round 1 victory at the Cooper Tires PBR Bridgeport.
Both riders delivered impressive performances, scoring 84 points each on their respective bulls. This achievement earned them a valuable 23 points apiece in the ongoing race for the coveted 2025 Velocity Tour Championship. Gleaves showcased his prowess by expertly handling the bull Bugs (J Bar W), demonstrating skill and composure throughout the ride, while Cole made the whistle aboard Game Day (C-B Bucking Bulls), maintaining a steady grip and balance as he navigated the challenging ride.
In addition to their first-place tie, Cole’s double-entry allowed him to secure an additional spot in the top rankings. He also tied for third place in the opening round alongside Andy Guzman from Oakdale, California. Cole rode Big Buck (Painted Pony Championship Rodeo) and Guzman matched his effort with an impressive ride on Big Mouth (C-B Bucking Bulls), both scoring 83 points each. Their performances netted them an additional 16.5 Velocity Global points, further contributing to their standings.
Rounding out the top five was Ramon de Lima from Rio Branco, Brazil, who also put forth a commendable effort. Lima successfully completed the required eight seconds on Double Nickle (Mike Miller Bucking Bulls), securing a score of 76 points, which awarded him 7 Velocity Global points for his performance.
In addition, three other contenders made their mark in the opening round, each registering points that will carry over into Round 2. Aaron Williams from Pismo Beach, California, Eric Novoa from Vacaville, California, and Zane Cook from Gibson, Oklahoma, are all poised to continue their quests for championship points as they head into the next round.
The excitement of the Cooper Tires PBR Bridgeport continues, with Round 2 and the championship round set to take place on Saturday, March 1. Fans can look forward to more thrilling bull riding action starting at 6 p.m., as the riders aim to elevate their scores and pursue victory.