When Jim Bob Feller began working as a rodeo clown at the age of 16, he never imagined he would make a life's work of it.
Now at 56, the celebrity clown is stepping into semi-retirement. He performed this week at what was likely his last La Fiesta de los Vaqueros.
Injuries have taken their toll. After all, Feller makes a living by, among other things, climbing into a barrel before a bull charges at it.
His neck was fused in 2002 because of the jarring hits.
A resident of Texas, Feller sat down to answer a few questions about life as a rodeo clown.
Q What does it feel like to sit in a barrel while a bull charges at you?
A Just like being in a barrel and getting hit by a truck at 45 mph.
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Q. When you were 16 and started clowning, did you have any idea that you would be doing this for 40 years?
A. I don't call it a job. Every day you do something different. It's not my idea of a job.
Q. Any fond memories of Tucson?
A. Just the beautiful weather. You've got your fans all around, and this rodeo committee is so friendly. It's like a big family.
– Josh Brodesky
