One could say Reuben Geleynse has sacrificed a lot for his sport.
The 31-year-old has torn his bicep, suffered six concussions and had reconstructive surgery on his face.
Yet the former professional bull rider loves the sport and hopes that when the Agri-Sport All Star Weekend is held here Oct. 2 and 3, the event will grow professional bull riding (PBR) worldwide.
Along with world-class equestrians and super dogs, professional bull riding is coming to Ottawa for the first time.
The weekend — which brings together the two major sport events in the agri-sports industry — will gather 45 of the best bull riders in the world, said Geleynse.
“The fact that PBR is coming to Ottawa is really something. Some of the best bull riders in Canada and the world will be coming here.”
Local Grand Prix rider Karen Sparkes will be one of about two dozen riders competing Oct. 3.
“This is a really unique event,” said the 28-year-old Kanata resident, who trains with Olympic medallist Ian Millar. “I’m really excited to compete in my hometown.”
The weekend will also include a show by the Superdogs.
The 45-dog show, which travels across North America, always gets local talent involved in the opening or closing acts, said producer Leonard Chase. Here in Ottawa, they include Natasha Farinaccio and miniature schnauzer Mika, and Natalie Charlebois and Shetland sheepdog Caleb.
