Ready to meet the beast? Bull riders Tyler Furr and Jon Roberts certainly are, and they will be displaying their skills during the Annual Salem Championship Stampede Rodeo, presented by Kroger.

“Our rodeo is more than bull riding, but it seems people always enjoy seeing the bull riding and what these men do,” Kevin DeBusk, spokesperson for Imperial Rodeo Company, said. “And this year, we are very fortunate to have two of the best back protecting the riders.”

Each year there are several bull riders who hail from Virginia.

“I’m excited to be coming back,” 12-year veteran Jon Roberts, a Southwest Virginia resident, said. “It’s (bullfighting) kind of like a bodyguard and people see you when you do a good job. And when they (bull riders) give you pat on the back, that’s what it’s all about.”

In addition to the bull riders compete against each other, spectators will also have the opportunity to enjoy bareback and saddle riding, barrel racing, breakaway roping, calf roping, team roping and steer wrestling.

Fans are sure to be rolling in the aisles as the 2018 Clown of the Year Dusty Myers makes a return to the Salem Civic Center.

Tickets can be purchased at the Salem Civic Center Box Office Monday through Friday between 10 a.m. and 6 p.m. Contact 540-375-3004 for more information.

– Submitted by Kevin DuBusk