California Rodeo Salinas bullfighters — aka Rodeo Clowns — receive recognition
SALINAS, Calif. (KION-TV) -- As "Big Week" officially kicks off in Salinas, people are expecting a lot of rodeo action, especially from the bull riding events.
However, there is an athlete who plays an essential role in the events, often going unnoticed.
They are the bullfighters, mostly referred to as "rodeo clowns."
Their role is to help the riders get out of the arena safely, often by luring the bull away or creating a barrier.
Bullfighters need exceptional agility and speed to dodge the animals' powerful and unpredictable movements.
Riders say that without the help of the rodeo clowns, their risk of getting hurt would go up dramatically.
"I think we all feel a little safer because they have been in the sport for so long and they are so talented, so fearless," said Bullrider Coy Pollmeier. "I think none of us would be here -- or we would probably be injured -- and these bullfighters are probably the biggest thing for us bullriders."
