story by Lindsay King
“Being that I was raised around rodeos, I had a ton of unique experiences where I could help contract acts perform growing up. I give all the credit to Lecile Harris, I grew up watching him entertain fans and he is one of the reasons I encouraged the idea to become a specialty act,” said Michael “Goobie” Smith from Siloam Springs, Arkansas. It was at his hometown rodeo where Lecile impacted Michael’s life the most. Watching so many contract acts over the years influenced the unique act that kicked off Michaels second coming in rodeo. “My grandfather was a rodeo announcer and my grandmother was a rodeo secretary. I rode bulls and bareback horses for a while but was not as successful as I had hoped. I always goofed around with a bunch of guys and was convinced by my peers to be start clowning.”
The idea formed in 2008 and came to fruition in 2012 when Michael first performed at the IFR Specialty Act Showcase where he won reserve champion. “I had almost no experience and after the show case the first rodeo contractor that ever hired me walked up with Brett Wellden. Brett stuck his hand out and said it looks like we will be working together.” Michael’s career took off as a result of the faith and trust Brett had in “Goobie” as an entertainer. Working all summer long together they quickly became like family, which escalated even more when Brett introduced Michael to his wife’s cousin Amanda at a rodeo. Michael is now married to Amanda and they have two sons: Rhodey, 3, and Rhyden, 1. “Now instead of just being traveling partners, we are technically family. It became a more personal relationship and formed into a unique partnership.”
Both agree their success has come from working together. “I know him better than anyone else out there and he knows me. When something happens at a rodeo we don’t panic to fill the show. I think the rodeo and fans benefit from that. It is humbling to know someone has your back and best interest in mind that you can trust and work alongside.”
Michael Smith works at a rodeo benefiting athletes with physical and intellectual disabilities – Vernon Sides
One of Michael’s favorite places to work is in Lawrence, Tennessee, at a rodeo benefiting athletes with physical and intellectual disabilities. “The athletes needed a field that would accommodate the numerous challenges they are faced with to play softball on. Like Miracle League and the Special Olympics, Abigail’s Plan formed and they started a bull riding event to raise money.” This year marked the fourth annual event, and Michael has performed every year. “It is unbelievable to see what a community can do when they come together. When you work an event for such an inspiration and meaningful cause, that makes it that much more special.”
One special rodeo tradition Brett and Michael never forget is showing their appreciation for the military. “Both Brett and I have served in the military and we have not taken it for granted. We want those who have, are and will serve in the military to know the sport of rodeo fully supports them and are thankful for their sacrifice.” Something else you will find at every show is a unique act, built from years of silently watching and listening. “I wanted my act to be fun, one that kids and adults could enjoy together. Some say that is clean entertainment and it is, but it is something else also. When each generation can relate on a different level, it becomes a bonding experience.”
For Michael, there is almost no difference between a professional or amateur rodeo. Though opportunities to perform in PRCA arenas are plentiful, Michael keeps busy with all his repeat rodeos from years past. “I am blessed to work the number of events that I have. I am committed to the rodeos and fans that continue to ask me back year after year.” He’s worked everything from SEBRA to IPRA to the ACRA, just to name a few. “The ACRA is a tight-knit group of families and friends that compete on a professional level. A lot of these competitors compete at the IFR and NFR. The caliber of competition that takes place throughout is like no other.”
