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Bull Rider

February 3rd, 2008 admin No comments

Bull Rider

Fundraising Auction Entertainment Idea - Mechanical Bull

Clients often ask me for entertainment ideas they can incorporate into their event, specifically during the silent auction portion of the evening. They usually want the activity to be tied into the theme of the gala, but they do not want to include an activity which might detract from their primary goal of raising money. They want to know what works well for other groups.

One unique activity I saw at a western-themed fundraising auction was a mechanical bull. The bull ride added a lively ambiance to the night!

The activity had been promoted prior to the auction so guests knew that the bull ride would be available onsite. Even so, guests were wary! Initially, many guests just eyed the bull and watched others give it a shot. When they saw that no one was getting injured, they warmed to the idea and entered the ring to give it a try.

The bull was positioned in the middle of an inflatable ring. The ring resembled an inflatable swimming pool often used by small children. When the guest was thrown off the bull (some guests hit the ground sooner than others), he or she had a "safe" landing on the inflatable plastic.

(To be honest, most guests slid off the bull. I didn't see anyone "thrown.")

Because this auction featured a western theme, guests were encouraged to dress the part. Most attendees were wearing jeans or casual pants. A handful of the women were in long skirts. This type of dress code was conducive to the activity of bull-riding. Men favored the activity over women, although I did see at least one woman try her skill.

The fundraiser was held in the school's gymnasium. The bull was set-up on a center-side, near the bleachers.

Although guests did momentarily stop shopping in the silent auction to watch the riders, the bull wasn't a noticeable distraction to the silent auction itself. Most people would watch one or two guests ride before drifting back to the silent auction.

During the live auction, we asked guests to sit in the bleachers. The inflated ring was deflated so guests could walk over the collapsed ring and situate themselves on the bleachers.

If you are conducting a cowboy or western-themed event and will be encouraging guests to wear casual clothing, consider talking to an entertainment company about renting a mechanical bull. It was a popular choice with the crowd.

About the Author

Award-winning benefit auctioneer Sherry Truhlar sells items, shares auction tips, and sometimes attends rodeos. If you found this article useful, you'll love her bi-monthly e-newsletter in which she shares PHOTOS and tips on the best benefit auction ideas. Sign up for your FREE subscription and receive a popular bonus - her Annual Item Guide, listing the top 100 items sold at her benefit auctions.