TUSCUMBIA – The sound of hooves pounding the dirt, the roar of the crowd, and the electrifying
energy of fearless bullfighters—it’s time once again for the Ross Hill Memorial Bullfest. This year, the 3rd
Annual Ross Hill Memorial Bullfest will take place on March 28th and 29th at 7:30 p.m. at the Longhorn
Arena, located at 2576 3 Mile Ln, Tuscumbia, AL. Gates open at 5 p.m., with Kidsfest kicking off at 5:30
p.m. before the main event begins at 7:30 p.m. Admission is $25, and children 8 and under get in free.
Tickets are available online at www.showpass.com/3rd-annual-ross-hill-memorial-bullfest/.
This event is run by Ross’ father, Tim Hill, and will showcase bullfighters in honor of Ross’s legacy and
passion for the sport. Ross Hill was a name synonymous with excitement, passion, and giving back. A
dedicated bullfighter with an infectious laugh and an even bigger heart, Ross loved nothing more than
bringing people together for thrilling rodeo-style events. His legacy began in the early 2000s with
backyard bull riding on the Fourth of July, a tradition that grew from his dad’s yard to Doublehead
Resort. In 2008, he launched “Straight from the Dirt,” an event that combined bull riding, bullfights, and
dirt bike stunts for a high-energy spectacle.
Even after his passing, Ross’s vision continues to thrive. The Ross Hill Memorial Bullfest honors his love
for the sport while also making a lasting impact on the community. Proceeds from the event benefit
local organizations such as the Wounded Firemen’s Association, multiple volunteer fire departments,
the North Alabama Children’s Home, and various other charitable initiatives.
“I’m excited about this event because it’s not a regular rodeo. It’s a bullfest,” says event organizer Willie
Murphy. “We’ve got events for kids, and it’ll be two nights of exciting entertainment.”
Ross’s father echoes the sentiment, sharing, “Ross being my son, he would put on events like this, and
after he passed away, his friends really pushed me to keep this going. We’ve been able to honor other
local icons, and we’re really excited about that.”
Beyond the Bullfest, the Ross Hill Foundation continues Ross’s mission of inspiring and supporting young
athletes. The foundation sponsors up-and-coming bullfighter Riggin Garret and tie-down roper Thomas
“Taco” Conway. It has also funded youth rodeo events and provided scholarships to Cody Webster’s Bull
Skools, ensuring the next generation of bullfighters has the training and mentorship they need to
succeed.
At its heart, the Ross Hill Memorial Bullfest is about more than just the adrenaline rush of American
freestyle bullfighting. It’s about preserving a legacy, celebrating a life lived to the fullest, and uplifting
others in the process. As Ross himself once said, “If I’m not entertaining you, I’m not a very good
bullfighter.”
For those looking to experience the thrill firsthand, this is an event you won’t want to miss. To support
the foundation, visit the booth behind the announcers’ stand or stop by the cotton candy booth at the
front entrance under the bleachers. Attendees can also purchase Ross Hill merchandise at the event or
online at www.rosshillbullfighter.com, with proceeds supporting the foundation’s initiatives.
Colbert County Tourism President and CEO Susann Hamlin emphasized the importance of events like the
Bullfest in strengthening the local community and economy. “Events like the Ross Hill Memorial Bullfest
bring energy, excitement, and tourism dollars into our area, but more importantly, they celebrate local
legends like Ross while giving back to meaningful causes. We are honored to support an event that
continues his legacy and brings visitors to experience the best of Colbert County,” said Hamlin.
Want to get involved? The Bullfest committee is looking for sponsors to ensure Ross’s legacy continues
for years to come. Contact Tim Hill at 256-627-2574 for more information.
Media Release/Maryanne Floyd
Colbert County Tourism
