One of the most distinguished riders in history is now the ultimate mentor for future riders at the Nashville Stampede.
The heart beating The thrill, risk, and intensity of eight seconds define the sport of bull riding, in which the rider confronts the unknown. Silvano Alves has achieved tremendous success in this brief, risky, and unpredictable moment, making the most of every second as he forges a career to remember.
Family Footsteps to Worldwide Acclaim
Silvano Alves was born in Pilar Do Sul, Brazil, and began bull riding at the age of 15, following in the traditions of his father, uncles, and grandparents. What began as a family ritual swiftly transformed into a surprisingly long-lasting career: PBR has been operating for 31 years, and Alves has competed in fifteen of them.
Alves’ inherent talent for the sport catapulted him to the top, where he became one of only two riders to win three World Championships, in 2011, 2012, and 2014. He is also one of just two people who have won the world title twice in a row.
As one of only four riders with more than 500 qualified rides (his career-high is 92.5 points, twice, on the bulls Smackdown and Buck Wild), a starring role on the first championship team in the PBR’s new bull riding league, and earnings exceeding $6.7 million, Alves is a sure future PBR Hall of Famer.
A Master of the Arena
Alves announced his retirement from individual participation at the 2024 PBR World Finals in Texas in May. He stated that his mind desires to ride bulls, but his body will not cooperate. He will now focus only on riding for the Nashville Stampede in the PBR Teams league.
In Duluth in late July, on the first night of the PBR Camping World Team Series 2024 neutral-site event, Alves climbed his bull in the bottom of the fifth, trailing by 7.5 points. If he hit the 8, the Stampede would win; a buck off meant a difficult loss.
He climbed aboard Woody, wrapping his hand around the rope. The gate swings open. And it was never in doubt: a walk-off, game-high 89.25-point victory over the Kansas City Outlaws, 257.5-175.75. Alves, known for his ability to read and respond to bulls in order to keep in sync with the strong beasts, once again shown why he is still the Stampede’s closer, despite being one of the sport’s oldest riders at 36.
Defining Camaraderie
Alves’ impact extends far beyond his athletic exploits. Alves, known for his contagious laughter and positive attitude, wants to aid up-and-coming bull riders, especially at his ranch in Decatur, TX, which serves as a hub for young Brazilian riders and their families.
His modesty and compassionate personality promote camaraderie and earn the respect of his peers. His personable personality and genuine kindness make him a popular figure in the sport, both among fans and other riders.
Alves’ success is built on careful and intentional planning. Every action he takes before a ride, whether stroking the rope for a better grip, brushing his glove, or securely strapping it to his wrist, is purposeful. His right boot, which bears the initials “S.A.,” is a proud emblem of his identity and history as one of the sport’s greatest.
Pushing Boundaries While Staying Grounded
As the Stampede (7-9) prepare for the eighth event of the 2024 PBR Teams season this weekend in Kansas City, MO, Alves continues to test the boundaries of bull riding.
Despite his various triumphs, he remains grounded, displaying genuine humility and warmth. He represents dedication, positivism, and excellence both in and out of the arena. His legacy, created by his spectacular career but more crucially by his character, exemplifies the impact that a single individual can have on a sport and its community.
As the Stampede (7-9) gear up for the eighth event of the 2024 PBR Teams season this weekend in Kansas City, MO, Alves continues to push the limits of bull riding. Despite his many accomplishments, he remains grounded, demonstrating true humility and warmth.
He exemplifies dedication, positivity, and excellence both within and outside the arena. His legacy, forged by his outstanding career but most importantly by his character, demonstrates the impact that a single individual can have on a sport and its community.
