New Bedford High Student Becomes Bull Riding Champion

When you think about New Bedford High School, bull riding and rodeos probably aren't the first things that come to mind. Yet for Augusto Vieira, bull riding has been the centerpiece of his life throughout high school.

How Augusto Vieira Got Started in Bull Riding

His bull riding journey began at the age of 12 when he climbed on a mechanical bull at a rodeo in Norton. Augusto said he wasn’t very good at first, but he thought it was fun and wanted to practice more.

He began training in the gym, got stronger and quickly improved. Before long, he convinced the adults at the rodeo to let him ride a real bull.

“The only practice you can have is getting on a real bull. Watching video and learning from your mistakes,” Augusto said. “Every time you get on a bull, it’s an adrenaline rush. You have to focus and think positive thoughts.”

How Bull Riders Get Matched With Bulls

Riders like Vieira do not get to choose which bull they ride. Instead, they draw names from a hat to determine their bull. Augusto admitted that his mom doesn’t love watching him ride because she hates seeing him get hurt when he’s thrown to the ground. He has previously injured his back after being stomped on by a bull.

New England Rodeo

Augusto Vieira is now the champion of the New England Rodeo, which is coming to Rochester Fair Grounds on July 14 for the first time and will be held there throughout the season.

His goal is to eventually qualify for Professional Bull Riders events in major rodeo hubs like Texas and Las Vegas.

Fake News

Augusto wants to dispel a common myth about bull riding. Many people think bulls are made angry by a rope tied around their testicles.

“The flank (the rope that goes behind them) squeezes their legs a little bit and makes it tickle the bull. It makes the bull jump and get agitated," he said.

Bull Riding Classes for Beginners

Beginner bull riding classes are held through the New England Rodeo to teach youth the basics.

“We give them support to learn how to hold on and ride the mechanical bulls. Eventually, the kids move on to a real bull that’s on the tamer side," he said.

What’s Next for Augusto Vieira

Augusto will graduate from New Bedford High School on June 12. He plans to attend a trade school and continue his promising bull riding career.

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