Ford, PBR Buck Into San Antonio

Professional Bull Riders, Inc. and Ford Trucks' roots are steeped in Americana; recognizing and supporting our armed forces in their fierce battle to protect this country is high on their list of community outreach activities

As such, Ford Trucks and PBR have partnered in a military appreciation program, donating more than 10,000 tickets to local military personnel, giving them the opportunity to experience the fastest-growing sport in America at the PBR's Ford Country Classic on May 19 at the Alamodome in San Antonio, Texas.

"South Texas Ford dealers and PBR appreciate the strong commitment our brave military service people dedicate to ensuring our freedom. Ford shares the same commitment with our customers and friends in San Antonio," said David Mondragon, Ford Motor Company General Manager for the Southwest Region. "That's why Ford has united with America's 'toughest sport on dirt' to celebrate local heroes."

Nine-time World Champion and PBR President Ty Murray (Stephenville, Texas) joined by 2004 PBR World Champion and Army-sponsored cowboy Mike Lee (Decatur, Texas) and Mondragon presented the exclusive military tickets to troops and their families at Fort Sam Houston Army Post. Both bull riders also visited with wounded warriors at the Soldier Family Assistance Center before heading to Randolph Air Force Base to meet with other military families.

"Throughout my career, I have witnessed our armed forces' great enthusiasm for the PBR. They are great fans of our sport and we appreciate them," said Murray. "The respect and support goes both ways. One only has to attend a PBR event and see the opening ceremonies activities to know that PBR takes every opportunity to honor our military personnel - our fans and riders demand and enjoy it. This is the least we could do to honor the men and women fighting for our freedom."

South Texas Ford dealers will showcase the toughest sport on dirt at the Alamodome May 19. PBR features the world's top 45 bull riders in a head-to-head battle with the fiercest bucking animals the planet has to offer. The Ford Country Classic is the first Texas stop on the PBR's 2007 Built Ford Tough Series presented by Wrangler and represents the first time in more than five years that the elite tour has played San Antonio.

Fans now have a chance to register at their San Antonio Ford dealer to win a VIP family 4-pack prize package for the Ford Country Classic, which includes premium seats, merchandise, a behind-the-scenes tour, and a meet & greet with other PBR stars.

The best in bull riding compete in this one-day event. Three-time and current PBR World Champion Adriano Moraes (São Paulo, Brazil); two-time PBR World Champion Chris Shivers (Jonesville, La.); and Texas' own 2004 PBR World Champion Mike Lee along with Mike White (DeKalb) McKennon Wimberly (Cool), Jason Bennett (Honeygrove), Brian Herman (Victoria) and Clayton Williams (Carthage) are scheduled to appear. Expect the event to include pyrotechnics, fire-breathing bulls, explosive special effects and the pulse-pounding excitement of a rock 'n' roll concert - Ford.