Bull market.

AEG Events and Media, a live entertainment division of Los Angeles-based Anschutz Entertainment Group, acquired an ownership stake in Grit Rock Rodeo.

The joint venture will expand the number of live events and television broadcasts for the tours owned and operated by Grit Rock Rodeo, which owns the Wrangler ProRodeo Tour and the World's Toughest Rodeo.

The Wrangler Tour consisted of nine performances in 2007 and will announce its 2008 schedule in a few weeks. The World's Toughest Rodeo consists of 25 of the top rodeos in the U.S. and culminates in the Ariat Playoffs and championship. The tour will have 15 events broadcast nationally from September to December.

The two companies will collaborate on all aspects of event production including venue booking, live event production, merchandising, television production and distribution, digital platforms, concerts and sponsorship sales.

Staff reporter David Nusbaum can be reached at [e-mail] or at [phone], ext. 236.