Rodeo Clowns: The Unsung Heroes of the Arena

Rodeo clowns, the brave individuals who dance with danger in the bull riding arena, are far more than just entertainers. These daring athletes, also known as bullfighters or rodeo protection athletes, play a crucial role in one of America's most thrilling sports. Their primary responsibility is to protect fallen riders from bulls by distracting the animals and providing an alternative target. This dangerous job requires a unique combination of skills that sets rodeo clowns apart in the world of sports and entertainment.

What Is A Rodeo Clown?

A rodeo clown, also known as a bullfighter or rodeo protection athlete, is a highly skilled and courageous individual who performs the dual role of protecting fallen bull riders from aggressive bulls and entertaining the audience with comedic acts during rodeo events.

Essential Skills of Rodeo Clowns

To excel in their high-risk profession, rodeo clowns must possess an array of physical and mental attributes. Their success – and often their survival – depends on their ability to think quickly, move swiftly, and maintain unwavering courage in the face of danger.

Key skills include:

• Speed and agility

• Ability to anticipate a bull's movements

• Quick thinking and reflexes

• Courage to face down a charging bull

The Evolution of Rodeo Clowns

The role of rodeo clowns has undergone significant changes since its inception in the early 1900s. What began as a purely entertainment-focused position has evolved into a crucial safety role that combines protection with showmanship.

Key milestones in the evolution of rodeo clowns:

• Early 1900s: Originated as entertainers to keep crowds engaged between events

• 1920s: Role expanded to include rider protection with the introduction of aggressive Brahma bulls

• 1930s: Jasbo Fulkerson introduced the wooden barrel for protection

• Late 1970s: Growing emphasis on the protective aspect rather than comedy

• Modern era: Often split into two distinct roles - bullfighters and barrelmen/entertainers

Gear and Equipment of Rodeo Clowns

The gear worn by rodeo clowns is a careful balance of protection and mobility. Their equipment is designed to offer maximum safety while allowing the freedom of movement necessary to evade charging bulls and entertain the crowd.

Essential gear includes:

• Bright, loose-fitting clothes designed to tear away

• Protective gear underneath, including padded vests

• Bullfighting skirts (specially designed pants with no crotch for mobility)

• Helmets (especially in Professional Bull Riders events)

• Additional padding for legs and other vulnerable areas

• The iconic barrel, serving as a quick refuge from charging bulls

Training Rodeo Clowns For Danger

Becoming a rodeo clown requires extensive training and preparation. Aspiring clowns must undergo rigorous physical conditioning, learn complex safety techniques, and develop a deep understanding of bull behavior. Many attend specialized schools and gain experience through apprenticeships before entering the professional arena.

Key aspects of training include:

• Attending specialized rodeo clown schools

• Gaining experience through apprenticeships at smaller rodeos

• Rigorous physical conditioning

• Studying bull behavior and movement patterns

• Mastering safety techniques and escape tactics

• Practicing with live animals in controlled settings

• Learning to work effectively as part of a team

The Dangers of the Job

Despite their training and protective gear, rodeo clowns face significant risks in their profession. The unpredictable nature of working with large, aggressive animals means that injuries are common and can be severe. The high injury rate underscores the dangerous nature of their work and the courage required to perform this vital role.

Common injuries include:

• Concussions and head injuries

• Broken bones

• Contusions, sprains, and strains

• Shoulder and knee injuries

• Internal injuries

• Elbow injuries

Famous Rodeo Clowns Through History

Throughout the history of rodeo, several clowns have left an indelible mark on the sport. These individuals have not only excelled in their protective duties but have also contributed to the evolution of the profession, introducing new techniques and styles that have shaped modern rodeo clowning.

Notable rodeo clowns include:

• Leon Coffee: Revered as one of the most beloved clowns in American rodeo history

• Lecile Harris: Legendary clown who performed until age 83

• Jasbo Fulkerson: Innovator who introduced the wooden barrel

• Earl W. Bascom: Honored as the oldest living rodeo clown at age 89 in 1995

• Rob Smets: Pioneered wearing sports jerseys instead of traditional clown attire

What Makes a Rodeo Clown a Crowd Favorite?

Rodeo clowns capture the hearts of audiences through a combination of bravery, skill, and showmanship. Their ability to seamlessly blend crucial safety work with entertaining performances makes them unique figures in the world of sports and entertainment. The connection they forge with the audience adds an extra layer of excitement and engagement to rodeo events.

Factors contributing to their popularity:

• Bravery and skill in protecting riders

• Comic timing and humor between events

• Engaging audience interactions

• Unique personas and routines

• Impressive physical feats and stunts

• Their crucial role in ensuring rider safety

How Much Money Do Rodeo Clowns Make?

While the job comes with significant risks, experienced rodeo clowns can earn a decent living. However, their income can vary widely based on factors such as experience, reputation, and the number of events worked. It's important to note that as independent contractors, rodeo clowns are responsible for their own expenses, which can significantly impact their net earnings.

Financial aspects of the profession:

• Typical salary range: $58,900 to $68,563 per year

• Top earners: Between $150,000 and $200,000 annually

• Pay per event: Generally $100 to $500, with top performers earning up to $2,000

• Most work 50-100 rodeos per year

• Responsible for own travel expenses, equipment costs, and insurance premiums

Conclusion

In conclusion, rodeo clowns are far more than entertainers in colorful costumes. They are skilled athletes, protectors, and integral parts of rodeo culture. Their bravery, quick thinking, and dedication to rider safety make them true heroes of the arena. As the sport of rodeo continues to evolve, so too does the role of the rodeo clown, adapting to new challenges while maintaining the traditions that have made them beloved figures in Western culture. Whether they're distracting a bull from a fallen rider or eliciting laughs from the crowd, rodeo clowns remain an essential and captivating part of the rodeo experience.

Richard Sutherland

RichardSutherland@bitsnspurs.org

Richard is a western lifestyle author for Bits N' Spurs, the weekly newsletter that keeps pace with today's rodeo. His articles are featured on dozens of rodeo and Western related websites and provide a window to the world of cowboy culture.