Update on the trampled bull rider

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You might remember back on Day 6 of the Fair that a really scary thing happened during the Bull Riding event.

A bull rider got thrown off.  Fine, that happens…a lot.  But then the bull stepped on the rider’s head. Seconds later, the bull made a final statement by stepping directly on the motionless rider’s back.

I was watching through my camera’s zoom.  I didn’t see the head stomp but I saw the one on the back and it made me stop breathing.

The rider remained face down in the dirt, motionless, for far too long.  EMT’s rushed to the ring and probably more spectators than I know joined me in sending up prayers.

Well…because of the amazing time in which we live, with blogs and social media and such…I can give you an update on that rider.  It’s good news!

Pete Bartkowski was our rider.  He currently lives Texas, but he is a local guy who graduated from Prairie High School some years back.

Pete says he doesn’t really remember anything about the trampling.  But he does remember hanging out with the EMTs in the ambulance and signing a release form because he really didn’t want to go to hospital.  I tell you, bull riders are tough.  Or nuts.  Both?

Back home in Texas, Pete got an MRI/CAT Scan and everything looks good.  Hallelujah!  No broken bones or internal bleeding.  He is still suffering from a concussion, headaches, and swelling and pain in his neck, though.  I can only imagine!

I asked Pete how long he was going to be taking a break from bull riding, expecting to hear a few months at best, maybe the rest of the season at worst (wait, is there a season for bull riding?).

Wanna know what he replied?

“I will be resting for a minimum of a week.  This isn’t my first injury but I will be taking it easy for a few days.”

A few DAYS?!?

Man oh mighty, did I mention bull riders are tough?

I’m taking it easy for a few days because I’m exhausted from ten days of walking and eating and endless Fair Fun.  I’m flat out on a heating pad, and here’s Pete with a hoof print on his head planning to be back on a bull well before I’ve lost the weight I gained by getting to know Erik at the Sweet Cheeks deep fried goodness truck.  Good gracious!

Pete also said that he is thankful for the bull fighters who did their jobs well in distracting the bull and keeping Pete as safe as possible after the massive animal stepped on him.  It could have been a lot worse without their quick response and protection.

Pete is grateful for other provisions, too.

“I just thank the good Lord above for letting me do what I love and protecting me even in the most dangerous conditions.”

Amen to that.

Remember the name Pete Bartkowski and join me in cheering him on the next time he’s in town.

SO grateful you are OK, Pete!