Up North: Spooner Rodeo features top clown talent in 70th year

The Spooner Rodeo turned 70 years old this past weekend, and after all that time, was still in the business for some laughs.

The man to give them that; Gizmo McCracken.

Just weeks ago, McCracken got a call from a Spooner Rodeo chairman, who was set to retire this year. After asking McCracken to come back despite his busy tour schedule, McCracken decided it would only be right, considering it was who brought him to town the first time.

“It’s just great that a committee respects what you do, appreciates the hard work you put in,” said McCracken. “It may look like we’re just a bunch of goofballs out here but I really work at trying to bring different comedy and different acts and different things to the table and to stay fresh, and that takes a little bit of work, especially in this world where it’s hard to see the humor in things.”

McCracken’s unique comedy keeps the energy up at the rodeo, which does more than enough for the content of its fans.

However, as the years come and go, and riders and crowds change, McCracken keeps coming back.

“I’ve done it for so long, it’s about all I know. I love going to so many different places, seeing so many different people, and sharing funny with people.”

McCracken’s humor isn’t just recognized by those at the rodeo, but the list of accolades goes on and on: Nominated clown of the year, 2017 comedy act of the year, and nominated for such award 11 times in his career.

Another reason for attraction was Spooner itself.

“Spooner is a beautiful place to come with great crowds. The committee here is outstanding, these guys, they work so hard for their community and the money that this brings into their town, the crowds here, they’re always fun to work with. Their show sells out every night.”

As the rodeo continues on in the coming years, McCracken will keep cracking his jokes, and making people smile.