Big instant replays coming to bull ride

The Cleatis Lacy Memorial Bull Ride, happening June 16, will move into the big time this year with a giant replay screen, rodeo officials said this week.

George Kohout, president of the Ridge Riders, said last week that an agreement has been made with a Montana firm to provide a 12- by 24-foot replay screen to show off attempts by cowboys to ride their bulls. The big replay screen agreement was developed by Shane Marchand, who is coordinating the bull ride. Marchand had been in touch with Marty Lyon, of Lyon Productions, out of Montana, to provide and install the giant electronic billboard in time for next month's event.

Reached in Montana, Lyon said that the replay screen comes in one piece and is hauled intact on a 27-foot trailer.

“I don’t know exactly where we will install it, but it will be where everyone can see the replays,” Lyon said.

The replay screen remains on the trailer during the event and can be raised up to six feet high so replays can be seen by the crowd.

“The replay system will slow up the show because the replays are from different angles, and the cowboys themselves like to see how they did,” Lyon said.

He also stated that when there is a lull in the show, certain highlights can be shown so fans can be entertained.

Lyon stated that he will send a camera crew of three with the screen. They will be in charge of the camera action.

“We will send the screen a week or so in advance and park the screen and trailer where people can see it to help promote the show,” Lyon said.

The added cost of the replay screen is courtesy of the Coulee Dam Federal Credit Union, rodeo officials said.

Prices for this year’s Cleatis Lacy Memorial Bull Ride, June 16, will be $12 for adults and $10 for students.

Kids, ages 10 and under, get in free.

The prize money for bull riding has a $2,000 added purse. There will be a wild horse race, with a $1,500 added purse; a junior steer riding event, with a $100 added purse, plus a barrel racing event.