Ex-UNLV star McBride retires from pro bull riding

By Steve Silver

Tuesday, Oct. 21, 2008 | 3:23 p.m.

Two-time Professional Bull Riders' world champion Justin McBride announced his retirement Tuesday at a press conference in the Silverton Casino Lodge.

McBride, who attended UNLV on a rodeo scholarship, will compete in next week's PBR World Finals before closing a legendary career.

The 29-year-old Elk City, Okla. native holds the PBR record for most career wins with 32. McBride also became the first professional bull rider to gross more than $5 million in career earnings.

"I have done what I wanted to do - win a world title," McBride said. "Now I am in a position to go out while I'm healthy and still riding well. I mean you can get hurt crossing the street, but there are more risks involved with bull riding. Now that I have a family and a child to think about, I want to be able to retire and enjoy my life with them and not be a crippled bull rider."

After McBride attempts to defend his 2007 World Title in next week's competition, he plans to continue working on his ranch in Oklahoma as well as pursue broadcasting and country music career avenues.

McBride enrolled at UNLV in 1996 and he started riding professionally in 1998 while still majoring in communications.

"Let's just say college was a lot of fun," McBride said.

He earned about $89,000 in his first year on the PBR tour. Last season he amassed more than $1.7 million in prize money.