Let ‘er buck: PBR Canada storms into Saskatoon

SPONSORED: SaskTel Centre is set to host the PBR Saskatoon Classic! We chat with professional bull riders Nick Tetz and Cody Coverchuk ahead of the big event.

The dirt will be flying at SaskTel Centre this weekend as the Bridge City plays host to PBR Canada’s Saskatoon Classic.

Reigning 2024 PBR Canada champion Nick Tetz is excited to be back riding in Saskatoon.

“It’s the marquee event for the season. There’s a lot of energy, being the last big one of the season before the Finals,” Tetz explained.

“Guys are trying to get themselves feeling good going into the finals. Guys are fighting it out for a $100,000 bonus that comes with the Canadian title, so the boys always come to ride at this one.”

Tetz, who earned a record $249,000 on home soil last season on his way to being crowned national champion, is working his way back into form after a serious injury earlier this year. The Calgarian broke his femur during a ride - but says he’s feeling good and ready to ride.

“This is only my second bull back in competition. I’ve been hitting the practice pens, starting to feel like myself.”

• Get the latest news from Saskatoon, sent directly to you: Download the CTV News App

Another top rider returning from injury is Saskatchewan’s Cody Coverchuk. The two-time PBR Canada national champion broke his back earlier this season.

“I’ve been on a few bulls now, and things are starting to roll, and I’m feeling good,” Coverchuk explained.

The Meadow Lake product says he’s excited to be back competing on home turf.

“I won my first Canadian championship in this building (SaskTel Centre), so good history here. I love Saskatchewan and love riding in front of friends and family.”

While the two former champions may still be shaking the rust off as they return from injury, Tetz admits he’s thinking big this weekend.

“I’m aiming to re-create some of that magic, might get me close enough to maybe try go back-to-back (as PBR Canada champion) this year,” he said.

“I’m just so thankful to be back riding bulls, not taking anything for granted, have fun and hang out with my buddies, doing what I love.”

It’s not just the riders who have a good time at the events. Coverchuk says if you’ve never seen PBR live, now is the time.

“It’s a great atmosphere, there’s pyro for the kids, good action happening, there’s something for everyone.”

Coverchuk isn’t the only Saskatchewan-raised bull rider taking part. Two-time PBR Canada champion Dakota Buttar of Eatonia and three-time PBR Canada champion Aaron Roy of Yellow Grass will also compete in front of the home crowd.

The PBR Canada Saskatoon Classic takes place at SaskTel Centre Friday and Saturday.