Matt Merritt

Known for his impeccable humor and impressive dancing skills, Merritt is a rodeo clown favorite for fans of all ages. He started working with the PBR in 2014, and his popularity continues to grow with each performance. This globetrotter has performed in 48 states, Canada, New Zealand, and Australia! No matter where he travels to, Merritt finds ways to incorporate local flavor to cater each show to his audience.

Matt’s been a professional rodeo clown for 20 of his 41 years. It’s his job to do the comedy and entertain the crowd when there are gaps in the show and during commercial breaks. Besides being an entertainer, Matt’s also a barrel man, meaning that during the bull riding portion of the rodeo, he gets inside a padded barrel and distracts the angry bull long enough to for the cowboys to make their escape.

Justin Rumford

Reno Rodeo is excited to welcome Justin Rumford, one of the most decorated PRCA barrelmen in rodeo history!

PRCA Clown of the Year: Rumford has won this prestigious title ten times, consecutively from 2012 to 2021.
Coors Man in the Can: He earned this honor in 2013, 2015, and 2018, recognizing his excellence as a barrelman and entertainer.
National Finals Rodeo (NFR): Rumford worked the NFR in 2014 and served as an alternate in 2012 and 2013.
A third-generation rodeo cowboy originating from Abbyville, Kansas, Rumford brings a rich family legacy and unmatched energy to every performance. His humor, timing, and crowd connection have made him a fan favorite across the country.