HOUSTON – A local Houston Rodeo legend will soon be going into the barrel one more time but it won’t be his last rodeo!
Barrelman Leon Coffee is set to complete his final barrel ride this Sunday, March 17, according to the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo (HSLR), but the official announcement will be made during Friday night’s rodeo.
Coffee began riding bulls as a child. Come high school, the self-described adrenaline junkie took to bullfighting. After decades performing at major rodeos across the country, acquiring dozens of injuries along the way, Coffee opted for a slightly safer occupation.
Now, Coffee is a barrel man, or clown, for RodeoHouston. Donning face paint, the Blanco native provides family-friendly entertainment and comedic relief during the rodeo.
Last year, the famed bullfighter/barrel man was named the grand marshal for the annual Rodeo Parade and was described by Rodeo president and CEO Chris Boleman as “an icon and fan-favorite.”
He was also inducted in the ProRodeo Hall of Fame and named the PRCA Clown of the Year in 1983.
“Leon will continue to be part of our Rodeo,” HSLR said. “He will be in the fan zone and also have some fun with our fans in the stands during the 2025 Rodeo. Leon has been a staple here at RODEOHOUSTON and we are thrilled he will be coming back next year.