How to Train as a Rodeo Clown
The rodeo clown helps make bull riding a favorite event. Often overlooked for the glory, the "man in the can" is definitely an integral part of rodeo. His job is to distract a mad, 2,000-plus pound bull after the rider dismounts in whatever manner they can, so the rider can get to safety. If you've got guts and athletic ability, here's what you do to train as a rodeo clown.
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Instructions
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Attend some rodeos and watch carefully what the clown does before deciding to train as a rodeo clown.
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Notice how agile and athletic he or she is and how they banter with the announcer and the crowd to keep everyone entertained.
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Find a rodeo school to attend. Most are three or four days and cost about $125 a day, not including meals and travel to the school. Schools cover entertaining the audience, protection of cowboys, individual and rodeo promotion, props and how to find work as a rodeo clown. Sankey Rodeo Productions holds schools all over the United States.
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Get to know a rodeo clown and apprentice yourself to them. Learn all you can and get some practice before going out on your own.
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Volunteer to clown at a local youth rodeo to test your skill and agility. Most youth rodeos use only steers or very docile bulls, so this is the safest venue for learning.
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Tips & Warnings
Ensure you are in top physical condition before attempting to train as a rodeo clown. You'll need to move quickly and jump high.
Be prepared to cover your own medical expenses. Rodeo clowns can't get health insurance because their jobs are inherently dangerous.
