Mike White (DeKalb, Texas), the 1999 Professional Bull Rider's (PBR) Rookie of the Year broke his back last night during the Mossy Oak Shoot Out bonus round of the PBR's Cabela's Classic from Kemper Arena in Kansas, Mo. White, who was riding in the bonus round for $15,000 after turning in the highest score of the 2nd night of the event, was aboard Leroy of Page and Teague Bucking Bulls when he was bucked off and injured. He was immediately taken to Kansas University Hospital. According to the PBR's physician Dr. Tandy Freeman, examinations and x-rays revealed a break in the 4th thoracic vertebra of his upper back, as well as a small portion of one of the joint surfaces of the 1st cervical vertebra at the top of his neck. He will be fitted with a custom brace that he will have to wear for 6-12 weeks. He will be recovering for a minimum of three months. "Our thoughts and prayers are with him and his family," states PBR CEO Randy Bernard. "We will do everything possible to assist them during this time and wish him a speedy recovery."

PBR President Ty Murray saw the injury occur and immediately knew it was bad. "That's a scary deal when you see a guy land like he did. I knew it was bad by the way he landed; it had to be either his neck or his back. Mike rides so well that it surprises me that he gets hurt so often and sustains such serious injuries. He's had some bad luck. We all hate to see this happen, but we know that it's a part of the sport that we play."

White has previously suffered a broken neck, fractured skull, ruptured shoulder, knee damage, elbow problems, and has also battled wrist and hand injuries over the past couple of years.

White's agent, Mark Nestlen of Cowboy Sports Agents, has been at his side since the injury. "Mike would like for me to express his sincere thanks and appreciation to the PBR fans and family for all of their well wishes and concern. He would also like to express his gratitude to Dr. Freeman for the attentiveness and care he has provided."

White's condition will be updated during tonight's broadcast of the conclusion of the Cabela's Classic on OLN at 9:00 p.m. ET. For additional updates on White's condition, visit the PBR web site at www.pbrnow.com.