I get asked many times what does it take to be a bullfighter? Or how do I get started bullfighting? Well, sit back and read this. Hopefully, it'll get you a little insight as to what's going on.
First off, cowboy protection is the primary job of the bullfighter when out in the arena. By placing himself between the bull and the fallen rider in order to divert the bulls attention away from the rider. The pros do it with style and humor so as to please and entertain the crowd, as well as save the cowboy's butt.
Now to get started. You must be in excellent physical and mental shape. With this you must have the desire and heart to do what is needed to fulfill the dangers, stresses, ups and downs, the aches, pains, and be able to make snap decisions under pressure. You won't have much time to think.
It also helps to be a tad bit "CRAZY!!"
Exercise is important. Do the same type of cardiac and agility exercises that you would in a football and basketball practice. A lot of jogging is important too. Your legs, heart and mind are important in the rigorous requirements you will be facing.
Lil' cowboy wisdom: Getting hit by a bull ........ is like getting hit by a car going 20 mph.
Next is education. That's right education. No, I'm not talking about going to college. Although, many have put themselves through college doing this. You can learn the trade by either going to a school and/or having a couple of experienced bullfighters to help you through the process. There are numerous schools throughout the United States. Check here on my link page or check with some of the local rodeo people in your area. They have pipeline of info on what's going on in your area.
Next step is internship. Find a practice pen where they do "buckouts." Get the permission of the contractor and the bullfighters before you enter. This will allow you to enter and do it under watchful and experienced eyes. They will tell you what your doing right or wrong. From there it's on to other arenas.
Also, I would add. Get some protective gear. Chest, ribs, thighs, hips,tailbone,shin and cleated shoes that cover the ankles. It will help lessen the chance of injuries. "But it won't help if you don't wear them." Check on my link page for more info on protection equipment.
Lil' cowboy wisdom: It's not are you gonna get hurt? ... It's when and how bad?
You must accept the fact that injuries will happen. There's no two ways about it. In my bullriding and bullfighting career. I have had 24 different bones broken, my right jaw dislocated twice, my nose broke, 4 concussions, internal injuries and my right ear tore off. It's all part of the game. Hang tough and deal with it.
The rodeo clown, barrelman or funnyman as they are so called. This is the man who keeps the crowd amused by using jokes, funny antics and comedy skits, that include props, explosions, fireworks, clown cars and sometimes the rodeo spectator. Many of the props are made from things at home or custom built by the clowns themselves or professional builders. Check on my link page for clown equipment and rodeo clown barrel makers. This is where the costly end of the rodeo clown part comes in. Not to mention the expense of traveling, equipment, food and lodging.
So if you think you can handle all of the above mention. Well, more power to ya. Maybe we'll meet at one the shows out on the road and you can strutt your stuff.
SCOOTER
Lil' Cowboy wisdom: Never approach a bull from the front .... a horse from the rear .... or a fool from any direction ....
******** Some Rodeo Stats *******
An inside look at the most and least dangerous rodeo events:
Bullriders account for 39% of all injuries
Special note on Ropers: Crying, because ya got ya feelin's hurt
when ya missed ya cow. Is not covered under injuries! .......
Man,I'm gonna catch Hell over this one!!
