Snoopy the Trick Horse Set to Dazzle at North Platte's Buffalo Bill Rodeo!

Ocala, Florida, USA - The Buffalo Bill Rodeo in North Platte, Nebraska, scheduled for June 18-21, 2025, is set to dazzle audiences with an impressive lineup, including the charming trick horse Snoopy, owned by rodeo clown John Harrison from Soper, Oklahoma. Snoopy, a Paint horse born in 2017, was originally intended for trick riding but soon discovered his flair for performance as a trick horse. His captivating act features a variety of tricks such as lying down, walking on his back legs, and performing liberty work, all while engaging with his enthusiastic owner, John Harrison.

John, a celebrated rodeo clown with numerous accolades, initially faced challenges in getting Snoopy to accept being ridden. He even considered selling the horse at one point, but Snoopy’s friendly demeanor and untapped potential made him reconsider. A pivotal moment came when Snoopy helped round up a runaway cow, which laid the groundwork for his acceptance of being ridden. Following this, he underwent trick riding training in Texas but was deemed an average student, largely due to his playful antics.

Snoopy’s Training Journey

Recognizing his potential, John’s wife proposed turning Snoopy into a trick horse, leading them to seek training with renowned equestrian expert Mary Rivers in Ocala, Florida, in 2021. After three weeks of intensive training, Snoopy had mastered the basics but would need another three years before he was ready to perform at shows. By 2023, this dynamic duo was entertaining through various rodeos across the country, showcasing Snoopy’s extensive repertoire of tricks.

John Harrison recently declined a staggering $100,000 offer for Snoopy, highlighting the emotional bond he shares with the horse and the considerable investment in training. Their bond is a testament to the dedication that goes into the world of rodeo beyond the thrill of the performance.

This year’s Buffalo Bill Rodeo promises excitement, with nightly shows starting at 7:30 PM. Tickets are priced between $11 and $24 and can be purchased both online and on-site. If you’re in the mood for some exhilarating rodeo action, don’t miss this event!

The Life of a Rodeo Clown

In the vibrant world of rodeos, clowns like John Harrison and Cody Sosebee play a crucial and multifaceted role. Cody, another talented barrelman, dedicates 2-3 hours daily to immerse himself in current events and trends. His comic routines are crafted to resonate with a diverse audience, allowing him to connect with people of all ages. Interestingly, Sosebee’s experience extends beyond the rodeo; he juggles roles as a school bus driver and substitute teacher, gathering material from his day-to-day life to infuse laughter into his performances.

Sosebee, originally a bareback rider who clinched the IPRA Rookie of the Year title in 1991 and the IPRA World Championship in 1993, made the leap into clowning shortly after. His knack for spontaneous humor and quick wit has earned him numerous nominations for the PRCA Clown of the Year and Comedy Act of the Year, making him a beloved figure in rodeos. His entertaining presence is scheduled for all three nights at one of the season’s highlight events—the Greatest Show on Dirt.

Essential Skills for Rodeo Clowns

The job of a rodeo clown goes beyond mere entertainment. They are vital for ensuring the safety of unseated riders by distracting bulls or horses, creating a lively atmosphere for the audience, and assisting in event setup. Key skills that define a successful rodeo clown include quick thinking, improvisation, and a solid understanding of horse behavior. Aspiring rodeo clowns often need to embark on an extensive journey of learning and practice, from mastering horsemanship basics to becoming CPR certified.

In conclusion, as we gear up for the Buffalo Bill Rodeo, we celebrate not only the talents on display, like that of Snoopy and John Harrison, but also the spirited clowns like Cody Sosebee who bring joy and laughter to the rodeo experience. This lively community thrives on skill, dedication, and a touch of humor, proving that there’s always something memorable in the air at the rodeo!