Team Queensland’s (QLD) epic last ride sealed their fate for the PBR Australian Monster Energy Origin Series (AMEOS), dragging them across the finish line to victory for the fourth time since 2019.
Held at the Brisbane Entertainment Center, QLD and New South Wales (NSW) teams put on a spectacular show for the 6,500 fans amongst the sold-out crowd.
Team NSW began strong, with two bull rides in front, and just a few points off first place, until QLD team captain Aaron Kleier made his appearance in the ring.
Dirt turned to dust as Aaron rode Roid Rage from Dittmann Bucking Bulls, scoring the highest score of the night, dramatically changing the course of the origin series.
Aaron went on to take out the event win for team QLD scoring 90.5 points, winning the event title by four points from team NSW.
Roid Rage from Dittmann Bucking Bulls gained the highest points of the night, finishing off with a 44.5-point ride score.
PBR Australia General Manager Glen Young said ‘what a battle.’
“What a battle, each team got nine bulls ridden, so it just came down to who rode the best bulls and got the points, and at the end that was team QLD,” said Mr Young.
“Since it is normally an individual sport, it’s great to see the team aspect come into play during the Origin series and see these guys work together.
“This finale round will play a crucial role in determining who will qualify for the PBR Grand Finales occurring in Townsville in November, which is the richest bull ride event in the entire Southern hemisphere.”
QLD team captain Aaron Kleier said how the team reacts when they put on their state jersey.
“When us boys put on the QLD jersey, we know what it’s about,” he said.
“It’s just so good to be able to ride together as a team.”
Following close behind their leader was James Stockdale from Dubbo, Mitch Paton, Will Purcell and Jackson Gray.
Although the NSW team had taken the loss, team captain Cody Heffernan remains positive to win the next Origin in Cairns.
“I am proud of the guys, you can see that everyone put it out there,” he said.
“We didn’t get it in the end, but everyone put in a big effort.
“We’ll be back for Cairns, and we’ll be better.”
Origin round three is taking place in Cairns on 22 July.
