CFA News

Requested post from Gary Payne-

How did I get interested in the Circus, & what made me want to join CFA!

When I was younger, I always enjoyed going to see the circus. It was and has been a tradition to see Royal Hanneford Circus every Presidents’ Day weekend in White Plains, NY. I have pictures from when I was 3 years old (2012) with Struppi Hanneford, Billy Martin(ringmaster) and Brunon Blaszak (tiger trainer).



Back in February 2020 (11 years old) I remember seeing the Hannefords preform + enjoyed it very much, and it was the last event that I went to before the quarantine months! Since it was still on my mind and did not have much to do during the quarantine months of 2020, I started to study the circus and became very interested in it! While doing some research, I was very amazed by Timothy Tegge’s history with the circus, and I remembered seeing him in the 2020 performance.

When I heard that the Hannefords were returning to White Plains this past February, I knew I had to go and meet Tim! That is when/where I found out about Circus Fans Association of America, and was invited to join! I think I may also be one of the youngest members in CFA, at only 15 years old!

Big THANK YOU to Tim Tegge, and everybody else in CFA for welcoming me to the club!

Pictured- Tim and I in White Plains, NY this past February.

This post was published with Vincent Pippa's permission.