Donny Castle and Tim O’Conner – Two of the Most Important Men in the Rodeo Arena

Please meet your Bullfighters for the 2012 PRCA RAM CCF Rodeo

Donny Castle & Tim O'Conner

Bullfighters are not only accomplished athletes, but they are masters of timing and agility.  They are the first line of defense for Bull Riders and they are responsible for distracting the bull while the cowboy regains his sense of direction and escapes to safety after a fall or a dismount.  Unlike other riding events, no Pick-Up Men are used because of the danger involved to the horse and rider.  Bullfighters put their own lives on the line to distract a charging bull or to rescue a cowboy tangled in his bull rigging.

To a bull rider, the bullfighter is the most important man in the arena as there is no one else to save him from danger. Since bucking bulls are not known for their gentle nature, once off the bull’s back and on the ground, the rider is at the bull's mercy. It is the bullfighter’s responsibility to get the bulls attention and let the rider get to safety.

We are pleased to announce your Bullfighters for the 2012 PRCA RAM California Circuit Finals Rodeo - Donny Castle and Tim O'Conner.  Both of these dedicated professionals have years of experience in the rodeo area and each and every cowboy welcome their knowledge, skill, agility, work ethic, and most importantly, their willingness to go that extra mile to keep them out of harms way!

Donny Castle

From Woodlake, California, Donny has always loved the sport of rodeo. At 20 years old he followed his dreams to fight bulls at rodeo and compete in free style bull fights.

Growing up in the foothills of the Sierra Nevada's, Donny spent many summers packing into the back country, which he still enjoys. In his spare time he also enjoys team roping, hunting and fishing.

Tim O'Conner

Tim O'Conner is a California native who was born in Exeter and raised in Springville. Tim has been surrounded by ranching and rodeo his whole life, which has sparked the passion for bullfighting that he has today. He developed his skills while watching his uncle Craig O’Connor fight bulls throughout his childhood and adolescence.

This season marks his tenth year as a member of the PRCA. Tim has been selected five times to protect the bull riders for the California Circuit Finals, in addition to many other major rodeos. His commitment to hard work and excellence pushes him to give his best to the bull riders, stock, and fans.