Cedar Rapids rodeo has international flare

CEDAR RAPIDS — The latest edition of the Cinch World's Toughest Rodeo has taken on an international flavor with the appearance of bull jumper Manu Lataste of Dex, France.

The long-standing indoor touring rodeo returns to the U.S. Cellular Center Friday and Saturday for a pair of 7:30 p.m. performances.

Lataste, 31, started bull jumping at age 14 and turned pro in 2000. He does 70 shows per year, although the sport of bull jumping is relatively new to the United States.

Bull jumping is directly linked to a southwestern France tradition called 'Course Landaise.' During a five-minute exhibition, Lataste will perform about 15 to 20 jumps and maneuvers.

The rodeo's two bullfighters will stand by to assure the bull jumper's safety during the exhibition.

Competition at the rodeo will be held in three rough stock events — bareback, saddle bronc and bull riding — as well as women's barrel racing. There also will be mutton bustin for younger competitors.

The three riding events will use the unique 'Showdown' format pioneered by the Cinch World's Toughest Rodeo in which all entrants in each event initially receive a single ride and the top two scorers return for a 'Showdown' round on higher-rated stock.

Riders must stay on for eight seconds to make a qualified ride. Rides are scored by two judges, one on either side of the animal.

Scores are thrown out after the first night, and contestants start at zero for the second night.

Barrel racers are timed as they run a cloverleaf pattern, with deductions for knocking over one or more barrels. Contestants run just once during the two-day event.

Tickets are between $20 and $60 for adults. Kids' tickets start at $11.50 for Friday, $13 for Saturday.

A family-oriented preshow will be held from 6 to 7 p.m. both nights.