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Broken bones, scrapes expected at Great Bull Run

Posted at 7:12 AM, Aug 24, 2013
and last updated 2013-08-24 07:14:33-04

DINWIDDIE COUNTY, Va. (WTVR) -- The Great Bull Run at Virginia Motorsports Park on Saturday is expected to draw thousands.

"I've got people flying in from California," said Rob Dickens, co-owner of the run.

The event models the running of the bulls in Spain, with injuries to the runners expected according to Dickens. [BONUS: WTVR.com's Great Bull Run event guide]

"Broken bones, scrapes, cuts; I expect all that to happen," Dickens told CBS 6

CBS 6 asked what kind of procedures are in place for people who get hurt. Dickens said there are EMTS on site as well as ambulances and doctors to treat any injuries.

Dickens said despite any injuries or even a death, all four runs will go on.

While there is potential injuries for the runners, Dickens said that isn't the case for spectators. He said the area around the grandstand is surrounded by a chain link fence. There is also another fence where the bulls will be.

"There's no real chance of a bull getting out. It would have to go through two sets of fences," said Dickens.

The event also has some concerned for the animals.

"You're putting thousands of people around them and then you're asking them to run at risk of injury," said Will Lowrey, a Richmond Friends of Animals volunteer.

But Dickens doesn't see it that way.

"We don't even hit the bulls to make them run, and you'll see that here at the event. Bulls running from point a to point b is not animal abuse," said Dickens.

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