POCATELLO — For anyone wondering how bull riders learn their sport, the answers can be found by spending a few hours at the Bannock County Fairgrounds in the covered arena Friday and Saturday.  

     Casperson Mini Bulls from Bancroft will be hosting its annual Mini Bull Riding Clinic. Registration begins at 8 a.m. and the riding will start at 1 p.m. Friday.

    Saturday’s schedule starts with an optional Christian Devotional at

8:30 a.m. and at 9 a.m. riders gather for instruction then bull riding begins at 10 a.m. After a lunch break bull riding resumes at 1 p.m.

     Each student will ride at least twice each day making plenty of entertainment for spectators. There is no admission fees and the event is open to the public.

    Owner Chad Casperson is known around the Northwest for providing top quality mini bulls for youngsters to learn the sport. The bulls match the riders in overall size. However, they don’t be fooled. The mini bulls buck just as hard as their larger counterparts and many have the same characteristics — horns, humps and cranky dispositions.

     The event features former professional bull rider Wiley Petersen from the Fort Hall area. Petersen was a successful participant in the PBR, wining several events, and he stood in the world of bull riding’s spotlight after winning the prestigious 2007 World Finals Event title.

     Petersen coaches the youngsters — some just a little more than knee high — on techniques, stretching, how to ride, dismounts and safety tips. And teach he does, as you’ll see him get right down into the chute with the riders.

    Action doesn’t end, though, at 5 p.m. Casperson has organized a regular mini bull riding competition for all the upcoming cowboys — again without admission charges and with even more riders. Casperson said he has 22 kids signed up to compete Saturday evening.

    Those attending are encouraged to bring warm clothing. Questions can be directed to Chad Casperson at 208-648-7106, www.caspersonminibulls.com and Wiley Peterson via his website www.bullridercoach.com.