As a Rodeo spectator (and a new one at that), one of my favorite things about the shows are the Rodeo Clowns. They come in, they make us laugh, and they go home. That is just the perspective from the stands. If you were to look a little closer and REALLY see what it is that they do, I think you would have a new found respect for them like I do.

Ethan Johnson is just one of the team members who works at Cowtown Rodeo through the summer season. I have come to find out that he travels all over the country to do this year-round, which is amazing in itself considering what it is they actually do. His job is to keep the crowd entertained, a job he does with everything he’s got and it shows. He runs around that arena all night long. I have actually walked that arena in it’s down-time and it is HUGE! Ethan does it rain or shine, whether it’s hot and humid or cold and damp. Not only does he do it, he does it with pure joy!

It’s the end of the night, and all the events are done except one: Bull Riding. Most people are too busy watching the bull and the rider to see if they can make that glorious 8 seconds. THIS is the time to REALLY watch Ethan. This is the hardest part of his job and one that many wouldn’t want to do. After the rider falls off, he has to keep this thousand-pound wild, bucking animal away from the fallen rider to ensure he does not get stomped on or crushed. While doing so, Ethan must also be sure HE does not get hurt as well. The first week we attended the rodeo, fellow bullfighter Cody Escobedo flew off the horns of one of the bulls, breaking seven ribs.

Although it’s one of the most dangerous things to do, Ethan Johnson, comes back week after week to face another bucking bull at eye level.

That’s just what he does IN the arena. After each performance, he stands at the entrance as spectators make their way out. He acknowledges them all and never fails to have a picture taken with an adoring fan. When kids see him, their face lights up with excitement over seeing one of the main performers of the amazing show they just saw. He is one the nicest, most respectful people I have met in the world of Rodeo and I am proud to say that I am a HUGE fan of Ethan Johnson!

The fact that he greets me by name, amazes me.