PBR BFTS: PFI Invitational 2017 in Springfield, MO

Written by

The Professional Bull Riders have experienced a busy summer in 2017, and they are preparing for the PFI Invitational in Springfield, which will be held from September 8 to the 10 at the JQH Arena of the Missouri State University. This PBR championship event is also known as the Springfield Rodeo, and it offers fun activities for the entire family.

This year’s Springfield rodeo is presented by Ford and Bass Pro Shops. Bull riders from across the United States along with a few from abroad will delight rodeo fans as they try to unseat current champion Ryan Dirteater from Oklahoma.

Ryan is 28 years old and is currently ranked as one of the top 20 riders in the world; although he tends to perform better when he rides in his home state, Ryan is known to ride better and earn thousands of dollars at Ford-sponsored events. At the Springfield Rodeo, he will have an opportunity to improve his ranking against top riders from Brazil and Mexico.

Special Events for Rodeo Fans

The bull riding excitement of the PFI Invitational starts every evening, but there are other activities that families can enjoy at the PBR Springfield Rodeo. Bass Pro Shops will hold fan appreciation events hosted by bull fighters, riders and entertainers. A mechanical bull will be set up for guests to show off their riding skills; holding on for the benchmark eight seconds will result in prizes followed by autographs. The legendary rodeo announcer Flint Rasmussen will be on hand to delight fans with his charisma and rapid-fire wit. Flint is the most beloved barrel man and rodeo clown in the land, and his years of experience as a school teacher makes him a hit among children.

Another special event for fans will be the PFI/PBR Party in the Parking Lot, which this year will be held at the larger Ozark Empire Fairgrounds; this party will heat up on September 14 with live performances by Tyler Farr and LOCASH.

Tickets for this event are available from MissouriStateTix.com

Coverage of the PFI Invitational and other PBR rodeo events will be provided by the Cowboy Lifestyle Network, your favorite source for staying up-to-date on the events that define the country and western culture. The Cowboy Lifestyle Network media team also features collaboration with the Ak-Chin Native American Community, the Papa John’s Pizza Road Team and Earnhardt Auto Centers. Visit CowboyLifestyleNetwork.com for more information.

Aaron Kuhl

Aaron Kuhl is a passionate advocate for the western lifestyle, bringing a wealth of experience and expertise to his role as Chief Operating Officer (COO) at Cowboy Lifestyle Network (CLN). Growing up as an Arizona native, with a mother who worked for Wrangler Western for over 30 years, Aaron was immersed in the cowboy culture from a young age. Aaron and his sister Heather grew up watching rodeos, as their grandfather and uncle were PRCA ProRodeo cardholders. This early exposure has given him a profound understanding and appreciation for the western way of life. Aaron went to Corona del Sol High School in Tempe, AZ, then to the University of Arizona in Tucson, AZ, where he received a Bachelor of Science after creating his own major. This unique course of study wove together Business Marketing, Geography, Sociology, Philosophy, and Religion. After graduating from the University of Arizona, Aaron joined CLN in its nascent stages, contributing to its growth and development over the past decade. As COO, Aaron manages operations, using AI to streamline processes and analyze data, ensuring CLN remains a leading voice. With expertise in business development, he innovates and cultivates client relationships, supporting CLN’s exponential growth. Beyond his professional accomplishments, Aaron values his faith, family, and friends, which are the cornerstones of his life. This personal foundation, combined with his professional expertise, makes him a trusted and authoritative voice in the western lifestyle community. Aaron’s commitment to philanthropy is the bedrock of his personal ethos. He actively supports local Arizona organizations such as the American Heart Association, the Boys & Girls Club, Chandler Compadres, Horses Help, Harris Brothers Charity Foundation, and Darkhorse Benefits and Operation Guardian (among others), reflecting his dedication to giving back and strengthening the community he calls home. Through his work, Aaron aims to preserve and promote the traditions of the west, ensuring that the spirit of the cowboy lives on for future generations.