A careful examination uncovered a fracture of his C7 vertebrae. Smets was released from the medical center to return home to Texas. He will undergo a more extensive evaluation by Dr. Andrew Mossett on Monday afternoon in Dallas. The initial prognosis is that Smets will be out of action for a minimum of 8 to 12 weeks.

The ageless warrior, who turns 47 this year, announced at the Express PBR Classic in Oklahoma City earlier this season that he will close the curtain on his bullfighting career at the 2006 PBR World Finals, October 27 through November 5 in Las Vegas, Nev. Smets had planned to continue to work through the 2006 PBR Built Ford Tough Series season with the World Finals being his final appearance.

One member of the fearless PBR Dickies Durabullfighters team, Smets earned the nickname "Kamikaze Kid" early in his career for his skill and daring moves in the arena. Smets' enthusiastic demeanor and longevity, not to mention his selfless determination to deliver lifesaving exploits week in and week out for season upon season, will leave a lasting legacy in the industry.

For more information on Rob Smets and his progress, please contact Denise M. Abbott at 719 471 3008, ext. 3144.

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