Hopes wins the 26th Annual Bull Riders Challenge
VERNAL, UTAH – The chutes cracked, the dust flew, and Western Park came alive once again January 16th and 17th as the Bull Riders Challenge returned bigger and bolder than ever. Riders from nine states — traveling from as far as Oklahoma — made their way to Vernal for two nights of heart-pounding, man-versus-beast action at Utah’s Premier Bull Riding Event.
And this year, the BRC raised the bar.
With increased prize money, a brand-new live stream, and the debut of the event’s high-energy “Texas Trio,” the atmosphere inside the arena felt electric from the first gate to the final buzzer. The BRC also increased the total rider payout to $20,000, with the top three podium finishers claiming $7,000, $5,000, and $3,000, giving riders even more reason to nod their heads with confidence.
On the mic, PRCA and PBR announcer Kory Keeth kept the energy high alongside eight-time top 5 Wrangler NFR Barrelman Nominee Matt Tarr and former Miss Rodeo America / TV Personality Amy Wilson, while the BRC’s first-ever live stream allowed fans across the country to tune in at BullRidersChallenge.com.
But when the dust settled, three riders rose to the top.
First Place: Hunter Hopes – Castle Dale, Utah
Hunter Hopes “representing team Utah” gave his home state something to cheer about.
With seven years of experience and more than $60,000 in career earnings, Hopes rode with steady focus all weekend, proving that sometimes the simplest mindset brings the biggest results.
“It takes a lot of focus but at the end of the day, I’m just trying to have fun,” he said. “You’ve got to keep it simple.”
Friday night, Hopes set the tone early with an 81-point ride aboard “Goofy” from PS Bulls.
He carried that momentum into the Championship Round — and when the pressure was highest, Hopes did something no one else could.
He was the only rider to cover his bull in the final round, sealing the win with a gritty 79.5-point ride on “R21” from Rocking B Rodeo.
That clutch performance earned him the gold buckle, the title of the 2026 Bull Riders Challenge, and a $7,000 payday!
“It makes me super excited. Happy to be here,” Hopes said with a smile. Already, he’s looking forward to returning next year — this time as the defending champ.
Second Place: X-man Antez – Cuba, New Mexico
The 2025 BRC Champion X-man Antez came into Vernal determined to defend his title — and once again proved he’s one of the toughest competitors in the game.
In just six years of riding, Antez has built an impressive résumé: two-time INFR qualifier, two-time Wild Thing Bull Riding runner-up, and two-time NMRA Champion. After winning the BRC gold buckle last year, he battled his way back to the podium with another strong showing.
He opened the weekend with a 77-point ride on “Cig Bitty” from Whitley Buckers, then added a 71.5-point ride on “Rocket Man” from Whitley Buckers in Saturday’s round to secure second place finish.
During his final interview, before the Championship Round, Antez kept his focus grounded in faith.
“I give everything to the Lord. I let Him lead me and let my body react,” he said.
Even while managing groin pain, he stayed mentally sharp, blocking out the noise for eight seconds at a time — a true testament to his grit and professionalism. “Like JB Mauney said” X-man reflects, “if you can’t get out of your head for 8 seconds, might as well not ride bulls.”
Year after year, X-man continues to show why he’s always a contender at the Bull Riders Challenge.
Third Place: Ty Pinnt – Craig, Colorado
Bull Riders Challenge fans know the name Ty Pinnt well.
A two-time BRC Champion (2022, 2024), 2024 PRCA Mountain States Champion, and CPRA Rookie of the Year, Pinnt returned to Vernal chasing history as he aimed to become the first and only three-time Bull Riders Challenge Champion.
With eight years in the sport and $14,500 earned at the BRC alone, Pinnt once again delivered a steady, workmanlike performance.
He scored 72 points on “Late 4 Dinner” from Whitley Buckers Friday night, followed by a 76-point ride on “T-25” from Rocking B Rodeo on Saturday to lock in his third-place finish.
Before his ride, Pinnt kept his mindset simple, putting the outcome in God’s hands and riding in honor of his grandfather — a source of constant strength and inspiration.
Though he didn’t claim the title this time, Pinnt’s faith, humility, and consistency continue to make him one of the most respected riders to compete at the BRC.
And if history tells us anything, he’ll be back.
As the arena lights dimmed on another unforgettable weekend, one thing was clear: the Bull Riders Challenge isn’t just growing — it’s thriving.
With bigger payouts, new talent, a nationwide livestream, and some of the rankest bulls on the circuit, the future of the BRC looks brighter than ever.
We’re beyond grateful for the riders, fans, sponsors, and volunteers who continue to make this event possible. Because of you, the Bull Riders Challenge remains a place where courage is tested, faith is strengthened, and legends are made.
Here’s to chasing big dreams, eight seconds at a time.
