I was reading through Dan’s post on the Rodeo Clown Reunion scheduled in Deadwood during the Days of 76 from July 23-25, and my curiousity once again got the best of me.

What exactly is the purpose of a rodeo clown?

To an extent, these face-painted funnymen are entertainment for the crowd. You might see some humorous skits, the announcers being pestered and maybe even a clown car! But the training of some rodeo clowns goes far beyond giggles, balloon animals and a big red nose.

Other than a bit of comical relief, rodeo clowns offer protection to bull riders. Once a bull rider is bucked off, the rodeo clowns step in to distract the horned-beast, which often weighs around 1,500 pounds.

That’s right, the clown risks his own life and safety to make sure the cowboy gets away. Not only are they comedians, but they’re also lifesavers.

Impressive, isn’t it? (Right now might be a good idea to take a double-look at the pic. Did you notice something in the barrel the first time?). No wonder they’re honored with a reunion!

For more info follow the links below……

Wikipedia-Rodeo Clowns
Rodeo Attitude
Salary.com
Flint Rasmussen
Quail Dobbs
Shane ‘Mad Dog’ Simpson