Brazilian Cowboy Wins Coveted Bullarama Supreme Championship

Brazilian Cowboy Wins Coveted Bullarama Supreme Championship

 Michelle Pinon - News Advertiser

Gilmar Santana from Ouro Preto, Brazil proved to be the best bull rider of the night on May 3, earning the title of Lamont Bullarama Supreme Champion.

Speaking through a translator following his victory, Santana said it was an honour to win in Lamont. “I didn’t have much luck last year in Lamont. It’s a better taste coming and winning this year.”

Last year was his first year competing with Bull Riders Canada and he was named 2024 Rookie of the Year. Santana said he is “looking forward to becoming Bull Riders Canada champion this year.” He would also like to win the Canadian Finals Rodeo and the Professional Bull Riders title as well.

Recapping his winning ride, Santana said he had a really good bull in ‘Lazy Eyes’ which came off his hand which made it a better for his performance. “At the end, he kind of cut to the right and made it harder, but I was sitting in pretty good so it worked out.”

His winning performance, along with the rides of 29 other cowboys was very entertaining to watch with a crowd of more than 1,600 people to cheer them on. Marcie Mazurenko and Jason Glover acted as Co-Chairs’ of the event. Mazurenko said they were excited to have 30 of the best bull riders in Canada compete at Lamont Bullarama Supreme. “We were excited to have 30 of the best bull riders in Canada compete at Lamont Bullarama Supreme,” said co-chair Marcie Mazurenko. “The number of entries this year and the quality of the competition is a fantastic sign for the future of the sport. It’s clear that Bullarama Supreme is becoming a must-stop event on the bull riding calendar,” she added.

The Lamont and District Agricultural Society hosted the event which also consisted of a Kids Meet and Greet with the professional bull riders. The event also featured a performance by world champion hoop dancer Dallas Arcand and entertainment by musician Travis Dolter, who kept everyone on the dance floor long into the night.

"We couldn’t pull off an event like Bullarama Supreme without the amazing support of our sponsors, volunteers, and the whole community,” noted Mazurenko. “It takes a lot of hands and heart to make it happen, and we appreciate everyone who pitched in. This event is really about coming together and showing what Lamont is all about — and that’s something pretty amazing.”

Over 65 volunteers helped to make the event an overwhelming success. “Lamont Bullarama Supreme is truly a community event, and the Lamont & District Agricultural Society is proud to support other local groups through their fundraising efforts,” said Ag Society President Terry Eleniak.