Mr. T: the Legend and Legacy of Laramie Jubilee Days Bull Riding

As excitement builds for the Mr. T Extreme Bull Riding, scheduled for 7:00 tomorrow night as a part of Laramie Jubilee Days, now is the perfect time to pay homage to its namesake.

Mr. T Copenhagen, of Burns Rodeo Co, was named PRCA Bull of the Year in 1986. In addition to being voted Bucking Bull of the National Finals in 1986 and 1989, he went unridden until July 1989. Marty Stanert scored a record breaking 93 at Cheyenne Frontier Days and gained the distinction of being the first cowboy to ride Mr. T. His was the first of only three successful rides.

Unlike other sports, in bull riding, a nasty disposition actually gains points. For the bull, that is. Fifty percent of the total score is earned by the animal. Points are awarded for performance, involving high kicks and sudden violent turns among other methods of removing the rider. Mr. T has his name down in rodeo legend and is usually described as big, mean and spotted with a huge set of horns.

Besides being praised for “bad” attitude, a bull is further rewarded for his display of temper with a peachy retirement in green pastures and plenty of female companionship. You’ll undoubtedly see many characteristics reminiscent of Mr. T in the current competing stock, especially in his direct grandson A6pack who will be competing tomorrow night. The fun starts at 7:00pm tomorrow at the Albany County Fairgounds. Tickets are $20.00 for adults and $5.00 for children under 12.