18-year-old wins bull riding event at Hampton Coliseum

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Elijah Jennings, an 18-year-old from Marietta, South Carolina, was the only rider to successfully ride two bulls at the PBR Hampton event at Hampton Coliseum on Saturday night. Jennings rode Poseidon for 87.1 points on Friday and followed with 78.5 points on Hardy in Round 2 on Saturday, securing the overall victory and moving up to second place in the Pendleton Whisky Velocity Tour standings.

Why it matters

Jennings' impressive performance at just 18 years old highlights the rising talent in the sport of bull riding, as young riders continue to challenge more experienced competitors. His victory also boosts his standing in the Velocity Tour, putting him in contention for a potential championship run.

The details

Jennings won the Velocity Tour event in Grand Rapids, Michigan, in late January, which had put him at No. 7 in the tour standings. His two successful rides in Hampton, including the weekend-high 87.1 points on Poseidon, were enough to secure the PBR Hampton title. Joao Goncalves finished second with 86.10 points on Socks in a Box on Saturday.

• Jennings rode Poseidon for 87.1 points on Friday.
• Jennings scored 78.5 points on Hardy in Round 2 on Saturday.
• The PBR Hampton event took place on February 6-8, 2026.

What’s next

Jennings will look to continue his strong start to the 2026 Pendleton Whisky Velocity Tour season and potentially challenge for the overall championship.