Recent University graduate Jake Wilcox became a rodeo clown during his time as a UGA student and still continues to perform in cities across the nation. Wilcox, originally from Winterville, graduated in May with a degree in agriculture business

How did you get involved in rodeo clowning?
I have a natural tendency to be goofy. I started working for a stock contractor who paid me $100 per performance.
It snowballed from there. I work about 40 rodeos a year, some of them two to three nights long.

What does a rodeo clown do?
It’s pure entertainment. My acts are primarily to make people laugh. I try to get dogs and ponies to do tricks to make my performances more fun. It’s my job to keep the crowd entertained during lulls in the rodeo.

What’s your favorite and least favorite part of being a rodeo clown?
My favorite part of the job is just the fact that I get to do something that’s fun, get people laughing and smiling.
My least favorite part is driving by myself.
At the same time though, that’s the fun part. You’re going somewhere different every time.

Have you ever had a close call on the job?
I had one on Tuesday at a rodeo in Virginia. The bull wouldn’t leave, so I got down on my hands and knees and was pawing at it, like a bull would paw.
Unfortunately he decided to take advantage of that and started getting after me.

What is your
favorite rodeo to perform at?
Newport, N.C. You could see the ocean and waves crashing from the arena.
There were 5,000 to 6,000 people there. When they cheered, it hurt your ears it was so loud.

What is your favorite rodeo event, and what is your favorite act that you do?
My favorite event is team-roping, because that’s how I got started in rodeo.
As far as my favorite act, I do a pretty kicking interpretation of Michael Jackson dancing. I can really shake my booty.

How are things looking career-wise?
I’m working with about four or five different contractors on a steady basis, but I get calls from other contractors to perform at their rodeos too.
I’ve done just about every event the National Bull Riders Association has put on this year.
I hope to continue to gain exposure from more contractors who see me perform at different rodeos across the country.