“Lot of Retirement”: Bull Riding Community Reflects on ‘Injury’ That Catapulted Birthday Legend to Top Spot

No matter how fiercely the bovine athletes toss the humans in the air, they’re all suckers for a few head scratches. The bull riding realm has witnessed a multitude of talented names emerge. But interestingly, the talented list has a line of bulls who issue serious competition to the riders. Surviving onboard for straight 8 secs looks far-fetched to most. Especially the top tier, Bushwacker, who entertains for 3.3s only. But there’s one who has charmed everyone.

Stock contractor Matt Scharping has an adorable white and black-spotted bull that the entire bull-verse swoons over. Not a significant title in his name, but his athletic high has earned him many accolades which would surpass many. Boasting a stellar career, the loving child of Scharping turned 15 recently.

Bull riding icon Air Time celebrates his birthday

Air Time was not gullible when Matt Scharping first crossed paths with him. It required him hours of quality ranch time in Arlington, Minnesota, some movements, and innumerable head scratches to reach there. And now, as the fiercest but timid bull turned 15, it’s surely a heartwarming day for him. The official Instagram account of PBR has posted, “Wishing a happy 15th birthday to the legend Air Time!” The video paired with the caption stood as a testament to the tender nature of Air Time, in contrast to the usual bovine attribute.

In 2017, when the bull was 8 years old, he retired from competition. Concluding his PBR career with a 31-1 record on the Built Ford Tough Series, Air Time developed a relationship with Scharping, which stands the test of time. “That bull is like one of my kids, and he will forever be that way. He will never need anything. He will always get whatever he needs, ” said Scharping. But Air Time recognized his family beyond his stock contractor.

Fans extend heartfelt wishes

Air Time had faced an injury when he dominated the bull riding world. Reflecting on that, one fan said, “If not for the injury, Air Time would be as dominant as Bushwacker“. A fan wished Air Time saying, “Happy Birthday”. Further on, another fan asserted that it would require only 5 seconds for Air Time to throw a rider off, despite being a big 15-year-old boy. Wrote, “Old man ? I’m going to buck off any one in 5 seconds”.

READ MORE: Months Post Retirement, JB Mauney Reflects on ‘Rankest Flank Rope’ Ride in Nostalgic Flashback

“Look at that sweet face. What a legend” said a fan who was only in the comment section to fancy the adorable man. Another fan could see how Air Time loved talking to the camera. Said, “Likes the camera” with a fire emoji. Even JB Mauney couldn’t conquer Air Time in his career, and all thanks to the fear element the bovine had.

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