(RALEIGH, NC) – The CINCH World’s Toughest Rodeo is making its way back to PNC Arena in Raleigh on Saturday, Feb. 23, 2019 at 7:30 p.m. In 2019, CINCH World’s Toughest Rodeo celebrates 40 years of bringing the Ol’ West to cities across the country.

Tickets go on sale Friday, Oct. 5 at 10 a.m. at Ticketmaster.com, the PNC Arena Box Office, and by phone 800-745-3000. Advance tickets start at $20 for adults and kids (12 and under) are half price. Group rates (10+) are also available by calling (919) 861-5457.

This year marks the first in history of professional rodeo that a “special events tour,” such as CINCH World’s Toughest Rodeo, has been sanctioned by the Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association. Fans can expect the best of the best among cowboy and livestock competing to be the “Toughest in the World,” and to also have the ultimate opportunity to compete at the National Finals Rodeo in Las Vegas, NV for the World Champion title.

CINCH World’s Toughest Rodeo features three fan-favorite events, bareback riding, saddle bronc riding, and the most extreme sport, bull riding. Twelve contestants will compete for the chance to return for a second ride in the thrilling “Winner Takes All Showdown Round.” The evening’s competition will also include women’s barrel racing.

In 2019, CINCH World’s Toughest Rodeo will feature some of the nation’s most talented specialty entertainers. Back by popular demand is Whiplash the Cowboy Monkey. The Rodeo will feature the wild and western cowboy primate atop his Border Collie mount, Boogie, as they round up wild Barbados sheep. Whiplash has entertained crowds at rodeos and special events across North America and Europe and a beloved highlight of the event. Joining Whiplash are Justin Rumford, Professional Rodeo Clown of the Year, and Roger Mooney, the voice of the Rodeo for over twenty years. In addition, Dusti Dickerson, talented Trick and Roman Rider, brings her high-speed tricks to Raleigh.

Prior to the Rodeo, fans are invited to arrive early for a free pre-show event on the dirt; doors will open at 6 p.m. Enjoy pony rides, meet and greets with cowboys and entertainers, and photo opportunities atop Sonny and Silver Dollar, the live bulls in the bucking chutes, and more.

For more information, visit www.WTRodeo.com.