by BY: MANDI MCCARY
LAS VEGAS – At the PBR’s first visit to MGM Grand Garden Arena since 1998, second place went to 2016 Indian National Finals Rodeo (INFR) Champion Cody Jesus (Window Rock, Arizona) for his 2-for-3 weekend, who cowboyed up in epic fashion on Saturday.
Jesus entered championship Saturday as the overall event leader after an impressive Round 1 win on Friday night.
Round 2 was not as fortunate for the talented 22-year-old. His matchup with Theodore (Lari Crane/ Gene Owen) ended after just 5.76 seconds; the bull then stepped him, leaving him with a sprained left MCL and knee contusion.
In visible pain, the Navajo cowboy was helped to the back but was determined to ride in the championship round.
Jesus chose Bentley (Viducic Bucking Bulls) as his championship round bull. Grimacing in pain as he climbed aboard his bovine opponent, he sprang from the chutes, rode the 8, and brought a standing ovation. His 92.5-point ride score, the highest of the weekend and his career best, sent fans into a deafening frenzy.
Jesus’s outstanding weekend earned him 107 world points and $20,298.49. He began the weekend at No. 42 in the world and has now launched to the No. 24 spot.
Congratulations Sir, keep up the great bull riding. We are American Natives with full inspiration and dreams. Your at your fullest. Stay strong and upmost prayers for you.