Austin Gamblers
Roster 2023

BULL RIDING IS NO LONGER ABOUT THE INDIVIDUAL.

ACCOUNTABILITY TO OUR TEAMMATES WILL REDEFINE THE SPORT.

WE RIDE TOGETHER.

WE ARE THE AUSTIN GAMBLERS.

Ramon de Lima
Hometown
Rio Branco, AC
Age
33
Height
5' 9"
Weight
180 lbs
About

Ramon de Lima, a South American cowboy with an easy smile and humble demeanor, is one of PBR's fiercest riders. From his ranch upbringing in Brazil to the electrifying arenas of the UnitedStates, de Lima's journey embodies grit and determination.In 2016, he debuted at the Barretos rodeo in Brazil and later challenged the Touring Pro Division in the US. In 2017, Lima made a triumphant return, earning wins and qualifying for the World Finals, finishing 27th.In 2018, he emerged as a top contender, becoming no. 1 in the world and winning his first PBRMajor. The following years brought challenges, but Lima fought back, finishing 10th in 2019 and23rd in 2020.In 2022, he soared again, finishing inside the Top 20 and leading the Austin Gamblers to success. In2023, he reached the Top 10, momentarily leading the World Finals standings.Ramon de Lima's legacy grows with every ride, his relentless pursuit of a World Championship andPBR Teams Championship with the Austin Gamblers driving him forward. As this fearless cowboy continues his journey, his story remains etched in the rugged West.

Lucas Divino
Hometown
Nova Crixas, GO
Age
30
Height
5' 8"
Weight
160 lbs
About

Known for his prankster antics and fun-loving personality, Lucas Divino’s infectious good energy makes him a friend to everyone he meets. Hailing from Nova Crixas, GO, Brazil, and now residing in Decatur, Texas, Divino is one of the sport’s most tenacious riders. Within the last year, he has catapulted from unranked to No. 32 in the Unleash The Beast standings, earning his fifth PBR World Finals qualification.While doing ranch work as a kid, Divino’s sense of adventure and willingness to venture into the unknown compelled him to go head-to-head with his first bovine athlete, a match-up he now faces regularly inside some of the world’s most famed arenas. After his first ride, Divino was hooked. At the age of 15, he knew he had the passion and skill to drop out of school and pursue his dream of becoming a professional bull rider. Making his PBR debut in 2017 in Brazil, Lucas Divino had an electric season, finishing No. 2 in the national standings after winning two events, including a career-first on the nation’s elite tour in Divinopolis. Since then, Divino has skyrocketed, joining the Austin Gamblers during their inaugural season in 2022. He’s seen his fair share of wins and challenges and remains as charismatic and determined as ever.

Dalton Kasel
Hometown
Muleshoe, TX
Age
25
Height
5' 10"
Weight
140 lbs
About

Dalton Kasel, hails from Muleshoe, Texas, and, from birth, has remained strong in the face of adversity. Born premature at only five pounds, Kasel can now claim some of the biggest rides in recent PBR history, earning him the nickname “Mr. 90-point.” After getting on a rocking horse at the age of one, by the time he was three, he was acting as if the wooden equine were one of PBR’s rankest bulls. After attending his first riding camp at 11 years old, he got on his first bull at 14 and ultimately headed off to Howard College in Big Spring, Texas, and began competing on the college rodeo circuit. Following a lacerated kidney in 2018, Kasel made his premier series debut in the second-half of2019, covering his first-ever Unleash The Beast draw. He went on to record two 90-point rides and win one regular-season event before qualifying for his career-first PBR World Finals. Kasel caught the eye of many when he was crowned the 2019 PBR Rookie of the Year and brings with him a tenacity and spirit that rounds out the team. Kasel currently resides near Stephenville, Texas, with his wife, daughter and his many bulls and cows.

Ezekiel Mitchell
Hometown
Rockdale, TX
Age
27
Height
6' 0"
Weight
155 lbs
About

Ezekiel “Blue” Mitchell, a star of the PBR docu-series “The Ride” on Amazon Prime Video, is known for his larger-than-life personality, sense of style, and million-dollar smile. Although he boasts a long list of awards and accolades now, Mitchell came from humble beginnings. Growing up in Rockdale, Texas, as the son of an equine dentist, Mitchell didn’t get on any animals as a child. Instead, his interest in the sport was sparked when traveling to various rodeo circuits with his father. From there, he began his education in the world of PBR by watching YouTube videos. Eventually, he traded in his track shoes and football uniform for chaps and cowboy boots. He studied top rides, made a drop barrel for practice, and attempted his first bull at the age of 16 before entering junior rodeos in Texas. Fast forward to today, Mitchell is a beloved member of the Austin Gamblers as well as a two-time qualifier of the National Intercollegiate Rodeo Association (NIRA) Finals and a two-time Southern Region NIRA Champion. Along with 14 PBR event wins under his belt, Ezekiel is also a 5-time World Finals qualifier. Mitchell’s unwavering dedication to the sport and ability to engage any crowd makes him one of the best in the bull riding biz.

Jose Vitor Leme
Hometown
Ribas do Rio Pardo, MS
Age
27
Height
5' 6"
Weight
139 lbs
About

In the untamed heart of Brazil, where the spirit of the West runs wild and free, a legend was born. Jose Vitor Leme, a young bull rider, burst into the Western sports scene like a bolt of lightning. He embarked on an unforgettable journey from his homeland to the U.S., where, with sheer audacity and skill, he made his presence known by conquering the PBR World Finals with an awe-inspiring 6-for-6 performance.‍‍ From that moment, Leme etched his name in the annals of bull riding history. With every ride, he defied expectations. He has bulldozed through PBR's records recording an astonishing 98.75-point ride, the highest-marked in PBR history, and earning a perfect 50-point rider score. ‍‍‍But the path to greatness was not without its challenges. Inspired by his father, who was a former bull rider, Leme's journey began at the tender age of seven. Life took unexpected turns as his family sold their bulls, but Leme found solace in soccer and karate. Despite being away from bull riding for nearly a decade, his agile soccer skills became his secret weapon in the rodeo arena.‍‍‍ In 2017, Leme conquered the PBR Brazil, claiming both the PBR Brazil Championship and Rookie of the Year titles. His sheer dominance earned him a place in the Pendleton Whisky Velocity Tour Finals and an invite to the PBR World Finals as the top international contender.‍‍‍ The years that followed witnessed Leme consistently clinching victories and accolades. In 2020, he claimed the prestigious PBR World Championship, riding his way into the record books with a stunning 95.75-point ride.‍‍‍ In 2021, Leme solidified his status as one of the sport's all-time greats when he earned two historic scores of 97.75 and 98.75 points while riding the bull Woopaa. Leme's unparalleled achievements led to his second consecutive PBR World Championship, placing him among the select few multi-time titleholders. In 2022 and 2023, Leme secured back-to-back Regular Season MVP honors as well.‍‍‍ Leme's legacy stretches far and wide, reflecting not just his unrivaled talent but also his humble demeanor. In the arena, he is a force of nature, but off the bull, he remains a man of few words, allowing his actions to speak louder than any boast.‍‍‍ As the bull riding world continues to be enthralled by his presence, it is clear that Jose Vitor Leme is more than just a rider. He is a legend in the making.

Callum Miller
Hometown
Warwick, Qld
Age
29
Height
5'5"
Weight
154
About

Hailing from Queensland, Australia, Callum Miller is a bull rider with a heart as wild as the Outback. Raised in a family that taught him the value of perseverance and passion, Callum brings an adventurous spirit and an iron will to the Austin Gamblers. Family is the backbone of Callum's life, providing unwavering support from day one. His parents, Tracey and Sandy, still reside in Australia, where his dad manages a small cattle ranch. His older brother, Lachlan, lives in Canada, riding saddle broncs and training horses. Callum's family has instilled in him the belief that positivity is key to happiness and that learning something new every day helps you grow as a person. Described as positive, easygoing, gritty, competitive, and genuine, Callum embodies the true essence of a cowboy. Off the back of a bull, he's known for his infectious enthusiasm and dedication to helping his teammates reach new heights. Callum’s journey is fueled by a love for the sport and the support of his family. With eyes set on victory and a heart full of fire, Callum Miller is not just a rider but a force of nature, poised to leave a lasting mark in the world of bull riding.

Paulo Henrique Oliveira
Hometown
Britânia, GO
Age
19
Height
5' 1.4"
Weight
117
About

Paulo Henrique De Oliveira, from Britânia, Brazil, exemplifies the grit and resolve of an authentic bull rider. Growing up in a humble, supportive family, Paulo's bull riding career is deeply rooted in his core values: family, faith, and determination. Though his family has modest means, they are rich in support and happiness. Paulo's faith provides the resilience and focus necessary to face the toughest challenges. Paulo is best described by five words: humble, unshakable, focused, joyful, and honest. His character shines through both in and out of the arena. His unwavering modesty and integrity, combined with a laser-like focus and sunny disposition, make him a standout figure in bull riding and a natural addition to the Austin Gamblers. Paulo's career is a testament to his unwavering commitment to excellence. His determination, consistently pushing himself to new heights, has earned him respect among his peers and a growing list of accolades in the bull riding world.

Trevor Kastner
Hometown
Ardmore, OK
Age
36
Height
5'11"
Weight
140
About

Trevor Kastner hails from Roff, Oklahoma, where his roots run deep in faith and family. A true cowboy through and through, Trevor is a seven-time Wrangler National Finals Rodeo qualifier with a list of impressive victories across the circuit. For Trevor, faith and family are the foundation of his life. His faith guides him to fulfill his role as a husband and father. Married to his wife, Kate, for nearly eight years, they share two children, McKenna and Korbyn. The Kastner family is committed to following Christ, spending their days together on their ranch, riding ponies, fishing, and tackling chores as a team. Trevor's wife describes him as a man of integrity, hard-working, humorous, loving, and a true family man. He embodies the spirit of the West both in and out of the arena. When he's not in the spotlight, Trevor is busy on the ranch, riding and raising ranch horses to stay in peak condition. For Trevor, it's all about balancing the rugged demands of bull riding with the steadfast values of faith and family.

Kaique Pacheco
Hometown
Itatiba, SP
Age
29
Height
5'8"
Weight
145
About

Kaique Pacheco established himself as one the best bull riders in PBR history. In addition to winning the 2018 world title, the Brazilian native was the 2015 PBR Rookie of the Year, four times he represented Brazil at the Global Cup, including back-to-back international wins in 2019 and ’18, nine-time PBR World Finals qualifier, took home the richest $2.1 million one-day payout in rodeo history at The American in 2022 and, just months later, Pacheco led the Nashville Stampede to the 2022 PBR Team Series Championship (after being the second overall selection in the inaugural draft). Known as the “Ice Man,” Pacheco and others look to his “consistency” as his biggest attribute. He has finished ranked inside the Top 5 in seven of the past nine years, including a title (2018) and four second place finishes (2022, ’21, ’16, and ’15), and only finished outside the Top 10 the year (2019) he was injured. Pacheco is fundamentally sound and does not compare himself to anyone else, including two-time World Champion Jose Vitor Leme and fellow Monster Energy rider, and is solely focused on becoming better than he was the day before. A third-generation cowboy — his father, uncle and both grandfathers were bull riders — Pacheco took lessons at 10, started riding full-sized bulls at 12 and turned pro at 17 before coming the United States at 20. “I grew with these guys all my life,” Pacheco recalled. “When I (decided) to ride bulls, my daddy (started) teaching me, and I make some clean (rides). After my daddy stopped riding bulls, I (got) his riding gear, his rope, his spurs, his helmet, everything, and start riding.” His father made it a point to make sure his son was just as comfortable on bulls that turned either direction. It did not matter if they were large and powerful or slow and faster, Nene insisted his son, Kaique, “get on all-styles of bulls” before leaving Brazil shortly after graduating from high school. Like his younger brother, Kaique can rope but is not interested in other sports or rodeo disciplines. He concluded, “I don’t think about other things, just bull riding.”

Rafael dos Santos
Hometown
Quitman, GA
Age
28
Height
5'6"
Weight
139
About

Rafael dos Santos burst onto the American scene in 2020 with a roar. From dominating amongst the PBR Brazil ranks to becoming a mainstay on the world's top individual bull riding tour, PBR's Unleash The Beast tour, Rafael has established himself as a talent to note. With a fearless spirit and a career studded with milestones, he's stormed his way to the PBR World Finals three times, proving that setbacks are just pit stops on his road to glory.‍ This Brazilian powerhouse, hailing from Sebastianópolis, joined the Gamblers in 2023 and knows how to light up an arena. With eight career 90-point rides on his resume in premier PBR competition, it is his 91.75-point ride on Blue Crush from Louisville, Kentucky, that remains his career-best. Rafael has his sights set not only on an individual gold buckle, but also a PBR Teams Championship with the Austin Gamblers. ‍Bull riding runs deep in his blood. A second-generation rider, he first faced off with a bull at just eight years old under the watchful eye of his father, Roberto Antonio, also a professional bull rider in Brazil.‍ From his debut in 2016, he has excelled on Brazilian soil, soared through the ranks, and made his presence known in U.S. arenas. From winning events in Quirinópolis, Goiás, to bouncing back from a broken back and ribs to clinch a victory, Rafael's journey is one of pure resilience. His three-straight Top 25 finishes on the premier Unleash The Beast tour are just a taste of what's to come. ‍This isn't just bull riding—it's a heart-pounding, adrenaline-pumping journey of grit and guts. Keep your eyes peeled for Rafael dos Santos; he's a force of nature on a path to bull riding glory.

Guilherme Valleiras
Hometown
Pirassununga, SP
Age
23
Height
5'5"
Weight
134
About

From the heart of Pirassununga, Brazil, comes Guilherme Valleiras. Competing in the 2023 and 2024 seasons, Valleiras has made his mark, most notably with a triumphant win at the 48th PBR Stockyards Showcase in Fort Worth, Texas. Guilherme rides with determination, focus, and an unyielding spirit. His cheerful demeanor and persistence make him a companion to his fellow riders and a favorite among fans. With a heart as big as his ambitions, Valleiras is driven by his family's unwavering support and his own desire to help others.

Gamblers
Leadership
Michael Gaffney
Head Coach
About

In the illustrious realm of bull riding, few names command the respect and admiration that Michael Gaffney does. A legend in his own right, Gaffney's bull riding career left an indelible mark on the sport. Armed with unyielding determination and unshakable courage, he blazed a trail of greatness, amassing an astoundingthirteen 90-point rides and achieving the seemingly impossible feat of taming the legendary bull Little Yellow Jacket not once, but twice in 2004, with spectacular rides of 93.75 and 96.5. Gaffney's biggest triumph came in 1997 when he was crowned the PBR World Champion, a title that solidified his status as one of the PBR's all-time greats. In those early years of the PBR, the sport was still finding its footing, and Gaffney was at the forefront of this daring revolution. Gaffney's journey to greatness was a testament to the unwavering grit and unbreakable spirit that defines a true champion. Retiring from bull riding in 2005, Gaffney's passion for the sport burned brighter than ever. Determined to share his wealth of knowledge and experience with the world, he seamlessly transitioned to providing expert analysis for the PBR's television broadcasts. His keen insights and captivating commentary brought a whole new dimension to the sport, enriching the viewing experience for fans worldwide. Today, Gaffney stands tall as not only a bull riding icon but also as a coaching legend. His wealth of experienceand deep understanding of the sport make him a guiding force for the Austin Gamblers, a beacon of inspiration for the riders under his tutelage. With every word of wisdom, every piece of advice, and every encouraging nod, he shapes the future of bull riding, molding champions and instilling the same fire and tenacity that oncedefined his own journey. From his fearless rides atop mighty beasts to his pivotal role in shaping the sport's future, he exemplifies the spirit of a true warrior, a man who defied destiny and triumphed against all odds. With each passing day, hislegend grows, his influence stretches far and wide, and the legacy of the great Michael Gaffney continues toshine brightly, a beacon of inspiration for generations to come.

Adriano Moraes
DIRECTOR OF BRAZIL OPERATIONS
About

Adriano Moraes, the iconic Brazilian bull riding legend, serves as the Director of Brazil Operations for the AustinGamblers. With an illustrious career as the PBR's first World Champion in 1994 and three-time titleholder,Moraes brings an unparalleled wealth of knowledge and experience to his role. Moraes takes charge of scoutingand developing the team's riders, while also providing coaching and instruction throughout the campaign. Adriano's passion for the sport is contagious, and he sees the Austin Gamblers' presence in Brazil as a catalyst for raising the professionalism of local bull riding athletes. His vision transcends boundaries, aiming to eliminate language barriers and ease the transition for Brazilian riders venturing to compete in the United States. As a mentor and role model to many, Adriano's mission is clear: to leave a lasting impact on the fans, riders, andthe sport he holds dear. With a record 12 World Championships earned by Brazilian riders, Adriano's unwavering commitment to nurturing talent ensures the Austin Gamblers will continue to flourish and shape the future of bull riding. ‍ Adriano Moraes stands poised to revolutionize bull riding in Brazil and beyond, inspiring a new generation of champions to rise to greatness. The Austin Gamblers have found a gem in Adriano, and together, they are set to conquer new horizons and rewrite the history of bull riding.

Michael Gaffney
Michael Gaffney
HEad Coach
About

In the illustrious realm of bull riding, few names command the respect and admiration that Michael Gaffney does. A legend in his own right, Gaffney's bull riding career left an indelible mark on the sport. Armed with unyielding determination and unshakable courage, he blazed a trail of greatness, amassing an astoundingthirteen 90-point rides and achieving the seemingly impossible feat of taming the legendary bull Little Yellow Jacket not once, but twice in 2004, with spectacular rides of 93.75 and 96.5.

Gaffney's biggest triumph came in 1997 when he was crowned the PBR World Champion, a title that solidified his status as one of the PBR's all-time greats. In those early years of the PBR, the sport was still finding its footing, and Gaffney was at the forefront of this daring revolution. Gaffney's journey to greatness was a testament to the unwavering grit and unbreakable spirit that defines a true champion.

Retiring from bull riding in 2005, Gaffney's passion for the sport burned brighter than ever. Determined to share his wealth of knowledge and experience with the world, he seamlessly transitioned to providing expert analysis for the PBR's television broadcasts. His keen insights and captivating commentary brought a whole new dimension to the sport, enriching the viewing experience for fans worldwide.

Today, Gaffney stands tall as not only a bull riding icon but also as a coaching legend. His wealth of experienceand deep understanding of the sport make him a guiding force for the Austin Gamblers, a beacon of inspiration for the riders under his tutelage. With every word of wisdom, every piece of advice, and every encouraging nod, he shapes the future of bull riding, molding champions and instilling the same fire and tenacity that oncedefined his own journey.

From his fearless rides atop mighty beasts to his pivotal role in shaping the sport's future, he exemplifies the spirit of a true warrior, a man who defied destiny and triumphed against all odds. With each passing day, hislegend grows, his influence stretches far and wide, and the legacy of the great Michael Gaffney continues toshine brightly, a beacon of inspiration for generations to come.

Adriano Moraes
Adriano Moraes
DIRECTOR OF BRAZIL OPERATIONS
About

Adriano Moraes, the iconic Brazilian bull riding legend, serves as the Director of Brazil Operations for the AustinGamblers. With an illustrious career as the PBR's first World Champion in 1994 and three-time titleholder,Moraes brings an unparalleled wealth of knowledge and experience to his role. Moraes takes charge of scoutingand developing the team's riders, while also providing coaching and instruction throughout the campaign.

Adriano's passion for the sport is contagious, and he sees the Austin Gamblers' presence in Brazil as a catalyst for raising the professionalism of local bull riding athletes. His vision transcends boundaries, aiming to eliminate language barriers and ease the transition for Brazilian riders venturing to compete in the United States.

As a mentor and role model to many, Adriano's mission is clear: to leave a lasting impact on the fans, riders, andthe sport he holds dear. With a record 12 World Championships earned by Brazilian riders, Adriano's unwavering commitment to nurturing talent ensures the Austin Gamblers will continue to flourish and shape the future of bull riding.

Adriano Moraes stands poised to revolutionize bull riding in Brazil and beyond, inspiring a new generation of champions to rise to greatness. The Austin Gamblers have found a gem in Adriano, and together, they are set to conquer new horizons and rewrite the history of bull riding.

Gamblers
Front office Management
J J
Gottsch
CEO
Brendan
Coffey
ACCOUNTS PAYABLE
Elisa
Fogle
VP, Operations & Administration
Isabel
May
Director of Content
Jenny
Nagelmueller
VP, Marketing
Ellie
Pardee
VP, Corporate Partnerships