Full Breakdown
Remembering Rick “the Ragin’ Cajun” Young: A Rodeo Legend
3/29/2026, 7:53:13 PM
Life and Career of Rick Young
Rick “the Ragin’ Cajun” Young, a celebrated rodeo clown and bullfighter, passed away on March 20, 2026, at the age of 92 in Hammond, Louisiana. Born on March 3, 1934, in Houston, Texas, Young graduated from Jefferson High School in New Orleans and earned a Bachelor of Science in Animal Husbandry from Southeastern Louisiana University. His rodeo career began unexpectedly when he filled in for a last-minute absence, leading him to perform with the Kinney Brothers Rodeo Company and later as a sought-after free agent across the United States and internationally.
Young's career spanned nearly six decades, during which he became a fixture at the Sikeston Jaycee Bootheel Rodeo, performing there for over 50 years. He was recognized as the Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association (PRCA) Clown of the Year in 1980 and was inducted into the ProRodeo Hall of Fame in 2022. His performances took him from Florida to Hawaii, and he faced some of the toughest bulls in the sport, enduring numerous injuries yet remaining dedicated to his craft.
Community Impact and Legacy
Young was not only a prominent figure in rodeo but also a beloved member of the Sikeston community. Jeremiah Quick, President of the Sikeston Jaycee Board, remarked on Young's ability to connect with people, stating, “When you met Rick for the first time, within minutes, you felt like you knew him your whole life.” His humor and showmanship left a lasting impression on generations of rodeo fans.
Following his passing, the Sikeston Jaycees expressed their sorrow on social media, highlighting Young's dedication to the sport and the joy he brought to audiences. The organization stated, “Rick dedicated his life to this sport and to the fans who loved him. His humor, bravery, and showmanship touched generations of rodeo families here in Sikeston and across the country.”
Memorial Contributions
In honor of Young's legacy, his family has requested memorial donations to the Sikeston Jaycee Bootheel Rodeo and the Kenny Rogers Children’s Center in Sikeston. Young himself had previously expressed his love for the Sikeston rodeo, emphasizing its community spirit and the dedication of the Jaycees in improving the event.
Reflections from the Community
The impact of Young's life was evident in the numerous tributes shared by fans and community members on social media. Many referred to him as the “greatest” and their “favorite rodeo clown.” Former Sikeston resident LaDonna Brase recalled, “Good times ‘back pen’ with him and my uncle Ruben. He was an amazing man in the arena and more importantly outside!”
Rick Young's legacy as a rodeo icon and community figure will be remembered fondly, as he brought laughter and joy to countless individuals throughout his remarkable career.
