Escalon resident Dennis Borba, an American matador and host of a popular bull riding competition the past couple of years at the annual Escalon Park Fete, is taking his show countywide.

The San Joaquin County Fair will feature the ‘first ever’ Professional International Bull Riding on the final day of the fair, Sunday, June 16.

“The event will consist of 24 bull riders and a six-bull championship round,” explained Kaitlyn Milam, public relations coordinator.

Also featured will be an American freestyle bull riding exhibition, dancing horses, wild cow poker and music including a special appearance by Lilana Cajias of Escalon, in addition to the bull riding itself.

There will be a food and beer garden offered as well and pre-sale tickets are available for $15. Cost at the gate for tickets is $20. Children under 10 get in free.

Borba, who will supply the bucking bulls from his Dennis C. Borba Ranch, is anticipating professional bull riders from the USA, Mexico, Brazil, Nicaragua, Guatemala and more to enter the competition.

Gates will open early, with the show starting at 6 p.m.

The 2013 San Joaquin County Fair runs from today, Wednesday, June 12 through Sunday, June 16. Gates open daily at noon, with the exhibit buildings open from noon to 10 p.m. daily. The midway and carnival hours are noon to midnight each day.

Along with the variety of displays and exhibits, the rides and games of the midway are always a major drawing card. Local FFA and 4-H members have also been preparing for the fair, with multiple competitions due for the livestock, arts, crafts and special projects.

The weather forecast is optimistic, with highs predicted to be in the upper 80s and lower 90s throughout the five-day fair, more normal for this time of year and much more comfortable than the 100-plus readings that hit the region over the weekend.