The Legacy of Bones: A Two-Time World Champion PBR Bull
The world of professional bull riding has seen its share of extraordinary athletes, but few have left an indelible mark like Bones, the two-time World Champion bull who passed away at 21. Retired in 2010, Bones lived out his days on owner Tom Teague’s farm in North Carolina, where he was cherished and pampered, a true testament to his legendary status.
Bones, born as a “bag of bones” calf, transformed into one of the most formidable bucking bulls in PBR history. With a staggering 90.7% buck-off percentage over 43 outs, he became a defining figure in the sport, surpassing even the revered Bushwacker during his championship run. Teague made the unconventional decision to retire Bones at just seven years old, opting to preserve his legacy rather than risk injury. This choice was met with criticism, but Teague firmly believed in the principle of allowing the bull to exit at the peak of his performance. “A boxer doesn’t box every day,” he remarked, highlighting his dedication to the welfare of his prized bull.
One of Bones’ most famous moments came in February 2009 during the Built Ford Tough Series event in Oklahoma City. With a perfect record of 13-0, the anticipation surrounding his performance reached fever pitch. Cowboy J.B. Mauney faced off against Bones and made history with a score of 93.50 points, marking the highest-scored ride of Bones’ career. This ride solidified Bones’ status as a phenomenon, a bull that seemed unbeatable.
In 2014, Bones received the PBR Brand of Honor, becoming one of only four bulls to earn this prestigious accolade. This honor recognized not only his athletic prowess but also the impact he had on the sport, inspiring countless fans and competitors alike. Teague’s connection to Bones was more than just ownership; it was a partnership built on mutual respect and understanding.
Teague’s journey into the world of bull riding began with a simple family outing. Attending his first event with his son Lacy, he quickly recognized the potential for the sport to grow. His conversation with PBR’s then-boss Randy Bernard opened doors to significant investment opportunities, helping PBR secure crucial television rights that propelled the sport into the mainstream. Teague’s keen eye for talent extended beyond bulls to the business side of the sport, illustrating his multifaceted contributions to PBR’s success.
The story of Bones’ lineage adds another layer to his legacy. Teague’s instinct to keep the cow that birthed Bones, despite considering selling her, was a pivotal decision. The cow, displaying impressive athleticism by jumping into an enclosed area, caught Teague’s attention. He foresaw the potential for greatness, and this intuition paid off with the arrival of Bones, a bull who would become a one-in-a-million athlete.
In the years following his retirement, Bones enjoyed a peaceful life, surrounded by cows on Teague’s farm. His passing marks not just the end of an era for his owner but for the sport itself. Bones was not merely an animal; he was a symbol of the heart and soul of PBR, embodying the spirit of competition and the bonds formed between humans and animals.
The legacy of Bones serves as a reminder of the passion and dedication that drive both the sport of bull riding and its participants. As fans and competitors reflect on his achievements, Bones will forever remain a central figure in PBR history, a champion whose influence will be felt for generations to come. His story exemplifies the ultimate pursuit of excellence, a journey fueled by love for the sport and the animals that make it extraordinary.
