Thousands attend PBR event at Salinas Sports Complex

UPDATE 7/20/2016 10:17 PM: More than 10,000 fans packed the Salinas Sports Complex Wednesday to watch professional bull riders compete for cash.

“I just like seeing the action and seeing the craziness,” said spectator Emilio Saavedra.

The PBR show, now in its 16th year, has become a tradition and a must see for rodeo fans during California Rodeo Salinas week. Rodeo officials said this is the third year in a row tickets have sold out.

“I think that it probably has become a tradition for people,” said Mandy Linquist with California Rodeo Salinas. “People are buying their tickets earlier and earlier now that it’s a sellout event.”

A total of 40 bull riders went head to head Wednesday. Ten of them were ranked nationally. Wallace Vieira de Oliveira from Goiania, GO, Brazil won the champion’s buckle with a total of 87.5 points on only one bull –Captain Jack of Julio Moreno Bucking Bulls.

“Its crazy to watch a little guy get on a huge bull and try to stay on for eight seconds. It’s a challenge. They are true athletes and it’s a lot of fun to watch,” said Linquist.

Salinas police officers were also in the rodeo spirit, sporting cowboy hats and boots. There’s also music and lots to eat.

“I kind of like how it’s something that happens every year here in the county, in Salinas, and it’s something cool to see,” said spectator Ivanna Franco.

The California Rodeo Salinas officially kicks off Thursday.

PREVIOUS: The California Salinas Rodeo is in full swing. Tonight more than 10,000 packed the Salinas Sports Complex to watch professional bull riders compete for cash.

Rodeo officials said tickets for the show sold out fast.

KION’s Monica Jacquez will have more at 10 p.m. and 11 p.m.