Amidst the electrifying atmosphere of Rattler Days, a thrilling rodeo event in Fort Worth, Texas, which kicked off on Friday, October 6th, a truly remarkable moment unfolded in the world of professional bull riding. An unassuming rider, once overlooked in the 2022 PBR Teams Draft, reemerged with a triumphant roar.

Silvano Alves, hailing from Pilar do Sul, Brazil, has etched his name into the annals of bull riding history by achieving a remarkable milestone, becoming only the fourth rider in history to complete an astounding 500 qualified rides. Additionally, he stands as the second-highest all-time money-earner in the sport.

Rising from overlooked to a monumental milestone

Silvano Alves‘ journey to the 500-Ride Club is an inspiring narrative of resilience and unwavering determination. Despite being initially overlooked in the 2022 PBR Teams Draft, Alves ultimately found redemption with the Nashville Stampede. The pinnacle of his remarkable journey unfolded at Rattler Days in Fort Worth, Texas, where he etched his name in bull riding history by achieving his 500th qualified ride.

Alves embarked on his bull riding odyssey at the tender age of 8, inspired by his father, a local bull rider in Brazil. His aspirations reached far beyond becoming the best bull rider in his hometown, and as he watched a video of his very first qualified ride on the premier series – an 86.75-point ride on Nasty Town in 2010 – emotions welled up. He said,” “When I saw the video on the big screen, my first ride here, in the red vest, it looked like yesterday,” he said. “Now it’s 14 years ago.”

In classic Alves fashion, his 500th ride on True Religion showcased his trademark resilience. With a score of 84.75 points, he fought through every second, barely making the 8-second whistle. “When I started riding bulls, I think and say, my parents and my family, I just want to be the best bull rider near my house,” he says, voice thick with emotion. “Not that my name would be big in Brazil and big in the world.”.

The 500-ride buckle that now adorns Alves is a symbol of enduring excellence. While doubts loomed when all eight teams initially passed on him during the PBR Teams Draft, his resurgence with the Stampede, including 21 rides and a 52% riding percentage, proved that he was far from a fading star. Despite the team’s challenges, Alves emerged as their brightest star, shining in the face of adversity.

Rodeo star: Silvano Alves

Throughout his career, Alves wasn’t the rider known for flash or consistently scoring 90 points. Instead, he excelled in his ability to stay atop bulls better than anyone else in the world. His remarkable consistency was exemplified during his first world title season in 2011, where he achieved a riding percentage of 69%. This consistency was instrumental in securing three World Championships.

Alves’ legacy is further cemented by his impressive record of being the second-highest all-time money earner in bull riding, with earnings exceeding $6,579,000 million. In 2022, he added a fourth title to his name by winning the inaugural PBR Teams Championship. Throughout his life, he has even become the second-highest all-time earner.

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However, what makes Alves truly exceptional is his ability to persevere in the face of adversity. The 2022 PBR Teams Draft initially saw all teams pass on him, casting doubt on his career’s future. Yet, the Nashville Stampede’s decision to bring him on board proved to be a game-changer. Not only did he revitalize his career, but he also became a pivotal figure for the team, guiding and inspiring both seasoned veterans and up-and-coming riders.

Silvano Alves’ remarkable journey in professional bull riding, from being overlooked in the 2022 PBR Teams Draft to achieving 500 qualified rides at Rattler Days in Fort Worth, Texas, is a testament to his resilience and enduring excellence. His legacy as a four-time world champion and second-highest all-time money earner showcases not only his riding prowess

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