As the Foothills Rodeo prepares to return to Wessington Springs July 2-3, attendees will notice a new, yet familiar, personality in the arena.
Tom Glanzer, a Wessington Springs native, former bull rider, longtime television sports broadcaster and current community relations manager for Northwestern Energy, will make his debut as rodeo clown and barrelman “Tumbleweed Tommy G.”
While it may be his first rodeo as a clown, Glanzer has spent a lifetime around the sport. He says the opportunity combines his passion for rodeo with years of experience entertaining audiences through television, public speaking and community events.
“It’s my return to rodeo,” Glanzer said. “If you were once in the arena, you always want to be in the arena.”
Glanzer has been preparing for the role with custom costumes, a newly designed barrel, sponsor support and plenty of practice developing jokes and crowd interaction. He hopes to create memorable moments for rodeo fans of all ages.
While the clown persona may appear lighthearted, Glanzer says nearly every aspect of “Tumbleweed Tommy G” carries personal meaning. His stage name pays tribute to both his Wessington Springs roots and the idea of spreading positivity wherever life takes him. Even the simple makeup design he plans to wear reflects a lucky number that has followed him throughout his life.
The Foothills Rodeo marks the beginning of what Glanzer hopes will be a new chapter built around laughter, entertainment and a love for the western lifestyle.
The July 1 edition of the True Dakotan will feature a profile of Glanzer, including photos of him in his rodeo clown attire. Readers will also learn more about the inspiration behind “Tumbleweed Tommy G,” his journey from bull rider to entertainer and why he believes laughter is as important to rodeo as the competition itself.