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Best rodeo queen questions

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Participating in a rodeo queen competition is an exciting and challenging experience. As a rodeo queen, you are not only representing your own skills and talents, but also embodying the spirit and traditions of the rodeo community. To ensure you are well-prepared for the competition, it is essential to be familiar with the most common rodeo queen questions that judges may ask. In this article, we will provide you with a comprehensive list of rodeo queen questions that will help you shine in the spotlight and showcase your knowledge and passion for rodeo.

Being a rodeo queen requires more than just looking glamorous on horseback. You need to have a deep understanding of various aspects of rodeo, including its history, traditions, and current events. Judges often ask questions that test your knowledge and commitment to the sport. Additionally, they may also ask questions about your personal experiences and goals as a rodeo queen. By familiarizing yourself with these rodeo queen questions, you can confidently answer them and leave a lasting impression on the judges.

As you prepare for your rodeo queen competition, remember to practice not only your riding skills but also your public speaking abilities. Being able to articulate your thoughts and express your passion for rodeo is crucial. By practicing these rodeo queen questions and developing well-thought-out responses, you will be able to convey your dedication and enthusiasm effectively.

See these rodeo queen questions

• What does being a rodeo queen mean to you?
• How did you become interested in rodeo?
• What is your favorite rodeo event and why?
• Can you share a memorable experience from your time in rodeo?
• How do you plan to promote and support the rodeo community as a queen?
• What qualities do you think a rodeo queen should possess?
• What is the significance of the American flag in rodeo?
• What role does the rodeo queen play in promoting western heritage?
• How do you handle the pressure of representing the rodeo community?
• What is the importance of horsemanship in rodeo?
• What is the role of a rodeo queen during the grand entry?
• How would you educate others about the sport of rodeo?
• What is your opinion on animal welfare in rodeo?
• How do you plan to use your platform as a rodeo queen to give back to the community?
• What are your goals as a rodeo queen?
• What are the different types of rodeo events?
• What is the history behind the rodeo queen tradition?
• How do you handle criticism or negative comments about rodeo?
• What are some challenges you have faced as a rodeo queen?
• How do you promote sportsmanship in rodeo?
• What is the role of a rodeo queen ambassador?
• What is your favorite western fashion trend?
• How do you balance your rodeo queen responsibilities with your personal life?
• What is the importance of community involvement for a rodeo queen?
• How do you stay updated on current rodeo events and news?
• What is the role of a rodeo queen in promoting rodeo safety?
• How do you inspire others to get involved in rodeo?
• What are some misconceptions people have about rodeo?
• What is your opinion on the use of technology in rodeo?
• How do you handle difficult situations or conflicts as a rodeo queen?
• What is the role of a rodeo queen in promoting western values?
• What are your thoughts on the future of rodeo?
• How do you prepare yourself mentally and physically for a rodeo competition?
• What are the qualities of a good rodeo queen mentor?
• What is the importance of teamwork in rodeo?
• How do you handle the responsibility of being a role model for younger rodeo enthusiasts?
• What is the role of a rodeo queen in promoting rodeo tourism?
• How do you handle the demands of being a rodeo queen and maintaining a professional image?
• What is your favorite rodeo queen memory?
• How do you plan to bring innovation and modernization to the rodeo community?
• What is the role of a rodeo queen in promoting rodeo scholarships?
• What is your favorite rodeo queen community service project you have been involved in?
• How do you handle the stress and pressure of competing in rodeo queen competitions?
• What advice would you give to aspiring rodeo queens?

By familiarizing yourself with these rodeo queen questions and practicing your responses, you will be well-prepared to tackle any question that comes your way during the competition. Remember to stay true to yourself, showcase your passion for rodeo, and let your personality shine. Good luck on your journey to becoming a rodeo queen!

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Helpful Advice & Tips

How To Become A Rodeo Queen: A Step-By-Step Guide

Becoming a rodeo queen takes hard work and dedication, but it can be an incredibly rewarding experience. Rodeo queens serve as ambassadors for their local communities, promoting the sport of rodeo, western lifestyle and the local rodeo organizations. From competing in pageants, to representing the rodeo, to often serving as an MC for rodeo events, a rodeo queen is a true ambassador for the sport.

In this guide, we’ll provide an overview of the steps to becoming a rodeo queen, from preparing for the pageant to representing your local rodeo.

Preparing for the Rodeo Queen Pageant

Most rodeo organizations hold a pageant to choose their rodeo queen. These pageants usually involve a speech, horsemanship pattern, and modeling. Some pageants are fairly relaxed and informal, while others are more competitive.

Before the pageant, you should get to know the rodeo organization and its members. Talk to current and former queens, and ask them about the pageant. You should also become familiar with the rules and regulations of the pageant.

You should also practice your public speaking skills. A good speech will introduce yourself and your rodeo organization to the judges. Work on developing a clear and concise speech that you’re comfortable with.

Your horsemanship pattern is also important. You should practice riding the pattern for the pageant. You should practice on a variety of horses, including different gaits and speeds.

Finally, you should also practice your modeling skills. Work on your posture, smile, and how you walk.

Competing in the Rodeo Queen Pageant

When you’re competing in the pageant, it’s important to be confident and poised. Show the judges that you’re an ambassador for the sport and the organization.

For the speech, you should speak slowly and clearly. Make eye contact with the judges and don’t be afraid to show your enthusiasm for the sport.

For the horsemanship pattern, you should ride confidently and be aware of your surroundings. Make sure you stay in control of the horse and don’t forget to smile!

Finally, for the modeling portion, you should stand tall and make sure to smile. Show the judges that you’re proud to be a rodeo queen.

After the Rodeo Queen Pageant

If you’re chosen as the rodeo queen, congratulations! You’ve achieved a great accomplishment.

Once you’re crowned, you should attend as many rodeo events as possible. You should also promote the rodeo organization and the sport of rodeo. This might include attending parades, giving speeches, and attending community events.

Being a rodeo queen is also about being a role model. You should be a role model for young riders and demonstrate the values of the rodeo organization.

Frequently Asked Questions about Becoming a Rodeo Queen

What qualifications do i need to become a rodeo queen.

To become a rodeo queen, you must be at least 18 years old and have a basic knowledge of rodeo. You should also be well-spoken and have strong horsemanship skills.

What is the difference between a rodeo princess and a rodeo queen?

A rodeo princess is usually a younger girl who is part of a rodeo court, while a rodeo queen is an adult who is chosen to represent the rodeo organization.

How long is a rodeo queen’s term?

A rodeo queen’s term is usually one year, but it can vary depending on the organization.

How do I prepare for the pageant?

To prepare for the pageant, you should practice your public speaking skills, hone your horsemanship skills, and practice your modeling skills. You should also familiarize yourself with the rodeo organization and its members.

What happens after the pageant?

If you’re chosen as the rodeo queen, you’ll become the ambassador for your local rodeo organization. This often includes attending rodeo events, parades, and community events. You should also be a role model for young riders and demonstrate the values of the rodeo organization.

Becoming a rodeo queen takes hard work and dedication, but it can be a rewarding experience. To become a rodeo queen, you should prepare for the pageant, compete in the pageant, and then serve as an ambassador for your local rodeo organization. With the right preparation and dedication, you can become a rodeo queen and have a great time representing your local rodeo.

MD Shihab Mia is the owner of this website and a seasoned Amazon associate. Alongside offering insightful product reviews, he crafts informative articles, fueled by his genuine desire to guide readers through the complexities of online shopping. With expertise in affiliate marketing, Shihab is dedicated to delivering authentic advice, enriching his audience’s purchasing journeys. He is also an SEO expert, freelancing on Upwork, and providing SEO services to his personal clients worldwide.

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History of Rodeo Royalty

• May 11, 2019

In the world of rodeo, there are few characters more recognizable than the rodeo royalty. An integral part of any rodeo, rodeo queens are the spokeswomen helping keep the sport of rodeo alive. Before the first cowboy enters the arena, you are almost certain to see these talented horsewomen flying past carrying flags, greeting rodeo fans, and engaging with the crowd as they sign autographs and sell raffle tickets. A staple from the smallest local rodeos to the largest national rodeos, rodeo queens are an active part in promoting not only the rodeo they represent but the community and western heritage that make it possible.

Photo Courtesy of Miss Rodeo America

But where did this tradition begin? Who was the first community-sponsored rodeo queen and when was the role of “Rodeo Queen” introduced? The history of rodeo queens is so vast, we could write an entire book on it! In fact, one woman did! In her novel Riding Pretty: Rodeo Royalty in the American West , author Renée M. Laegreid explores the origin, history, and present of today’s rodeo queen.

While we may not have enough time to explore the entire history in one article, we can give you the who, what, when, and where about one of America’s most iconic figures, the rodeo queen!

When discussing the development of the community rodeo queen, it is important to look at a few specific locations. One of them being, Pendleton, Oregon. While female rodeo athletes were few and far between due to gender roles of early 1900s America, female rodeo athletes were typically chosen as representatives for rodeos. However, in 1910 tradition was broken when a community chosen, local queen was appointed. Pendleton, Oregon presented the first Round-Up celebration and leading the Westward Ho! Parade was Oregon’s first community-sponsored rodeo queen, Bertha Anger. Winning her title from a ticket selling competition, Anger’s responsibilities were simple: look as regal as possible while riding along the parade route (on a float that is!) Although the rodeo queen, Anger had very little to do with the rodeo and was not a horsewoman. During this point in American history, social norms and expectations for women focused less on a woman’s ability to ride a horse (female rodeo competitors were quite a novelty at this point) and more so on her ability to represent the morals of the community, the town’s celebration, and the town’s western heritage. While these qualifications have carried on to today’s rodeo pageants, at this point in history, the community-sponsored rodeo queen was rarely even seen at the actual rodeo.

Photo Courtesy of Riding Pretty: Rodeo Royalty in the American West by Renée M. Laegreid

Due to social norms and expectations for women during this point in America’s history, there was a slow start to involving rodeo queens within the actual rodeo. It wasn’t until the 1920s that community chosen queens were featured in the Pendelton Round-Up Rodeo .

“In 1922 the queen and her court became involved with the rodeo itself. When Queen Thelma and her court walked their horses into the arena, they began one of the most important rodeo queen traditions: riding into the rodeo arena at the beginning of each rodeo performance and being introduced to the rodeo spectators as the reigning monarch of the show” (Laegreid, 47).

As the years moved on, more breakthroughs occurred. Changes in the ways rodeo queens were selected, bigger press recognition for the rodeo queens, and in 1925 more recognition and celebration of the cowgirl athlete in the rodeo arena. In many ways, Pendleton was continuing to establish America’s rodeo queen tradition.

America’s rodeo queen tradition continued to evolve. Post Great Depression, new rodeos began to appear across the west. In Stamford, Texas, The Texas Cowboy Reunion changed the game for rodeo queens by adding two new requirements:

“The first involved a competitive rodeo event to select the rodeo queen. The second added feminine appearance as a category in the rodeo queen contest, an addition that both highlighted the evolving beauty culture in America and profoundly influenced the rodeo queen phenomenon” (Laegreid, 73). Photography by Rachel Aston of the Las Vegas Review / Today’s Queen Pageants require participants to compete in areas of horsemanship, public speaking, personal interview, rodeo and equine knowledge, current event awareness, and modeling.

As tradition expanded, it became expectation from rodeos across the country, that the young women appointed rodeo royalty should be able to ride.

“With minor exceptions, the move that began in 1925 – transferring roles from cowgirl athletes to community-sponsored rodeo queens – was complete: the genteel version of the cowgirl ruled the rodeo arena” (Laegreid, 96).

During the World War II era, many rodeos took a hit, stopping their traditions for a short while to instead help with war efforts. When these traditions returned, a new era for rodeo queens began. Hundreds of women vied for the position of rodeo queen and the movie-star like treatment it entailed. The position of rodeo queen became a staple figure throughout the west.

Rodeo queens became even more involved in the communities and rodeos they represented. Horsemanship competitions were added to pageants, traveling to promote one’s rodeo became the norm, queens were featured more often in publications, and often queens were introduced to politicians, local clubs and boards, and even celebrities.

The 1947 the Cheyenne Frontier Days Rodeo Queen, Ann Dinneen Smith stated,

“I can’t imagine any girl in those days not doing it. It was a pretty big deal to the girl and her family… brought me into another plateau, so important at the stage of life… I met people, it opened doors, and boosted my confidence” (Laegreid, 169-170).

In 1955, the International Rodeo Management (IRA) changed the game with the development of the iconic, Miss Rodeo America organization. The local queen soon had the opportunity to become a national icon and spokeswoman for all rodeo. Throughout the years, the organization has seen many changes in location of pageant, number of competitors, etc. In 1985, the pageant became synonymous with the Wrangler National Finals Rodeo and saw its permanent residency in Las Vegas, Nevada. Since its foundation, MRA has become an important part of America’s rodeo past, present, and future.

Rodeo queens are an integral part of any rodeo. With the shift of gender roles throughout the decades, rodeo queens are experienced horsewomen, rodeo educators, talented public speakers, role models to the next generation of cowboys and cowgirls, and rodeo historians helping to preserve America’s western heritage.

Marilyn (Scott) Freimark, The first Miss Rodeo America 1956 (Wyoming)

Next time you see a rodeo queen in the arena, take a moment to think about the long history behind such a prestigious title and tip your hats to our decorated ladies in the arena. Interested in learning more about the history of America’s community-sponsored rodeo queen? Make sure to check out Renée M. Laegrid’s impressive historical account, “ Riding Pretty: Rodeo Royalty in the American West .”

CLN Community & Event Sponsor

Taryn Cantrell is an Arizona native who has spent many hours in the rodeo arena. Having grown up barrel racing, serving as the 2017 Gilbert Days Rodeo Queen and as a member of the Cowgirls Historical Foundation, Taryn is passionate about her western heritage and all things rodeo. When she’s not on horseback, Taryn can be found playing her bass guitar, painting, and performing around Phoenix with her band. Taryn is a graduate of Arizona State University with her Bachelor's Degree in Vocal Performance. Taryn is proud to combine her love of the arts with her love of rodeo and has been honored to sing The National Anthem at various rodeos across the beautiful state of Arizona. Alongside her love for art and music, preserving her western heritage and promoting the sport of rodeo are just two of Taryn’s many passions. Taryn is so honored to share her love of rodeo with Cowboy Lifestyle Network’s wonderful audience.

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Cowgirl to Queen

Rodeo Queen Resource

• Feb 17, 2021

Ace the Interview: Study Tips for Your Next Rodeo Queen Pageant

Updated: Mar 22, 2021

Horsemanship patterns may be practiced daily. Enhanced, refined, and committed to memory long before a competition.

Speeches can be memorized. Written, remembered, and blocked out until presenting feels natural and like a second nature.

What about interviews?

Unlike patterns, speeches, and even modeling routines, the interview portion of a pageant is not so easily prepared for.

There is no way to know what questions you will be asked, in what order, or even if the questions will be more personality or black and white trivia questions.

Though there is no exact science to preparing for a rodeo queen interview, there are a few things that you can do that will help you feel confident and ultimately perform well when the questions come.

Never Stop Learning

Though it is true that you will never know the exact questions or answers to questions that you might get during an interview, it is still important to study.

Rodeo queens are expected to be experts or at least versed in rodeo history, rules, and current events as well as equine science , political affairs, and just about everything in between.

You do not need to be an expert in all of these areas (though as a rodeo queen I would highly recommend having a proficient knowledge of the sport), but even an intermediate understanding can help you exceptionally during your interviews.

Find PRCA study guides and stay up-to-date on world standings and influential events in the sport of rodeo currently.

Read anatomy books, talk to a vet, or even a trusted horseman to gain a better understanding of equine anatomy and ownership.

Finally; watch the news. Recognize hot topics going on in the country and the world and build an informed perspective on each of these.

Even if you aren't good at remembering exact names, symbols, or percentages from your study material, exposing yourself to the topic can do wonders at helping you feel prepared and answer questions using the understanding that you have on the subject.

The only way to get better at anything is to practice. While you may not be able to set up a replica interview with a panel of judges you can practice answering a variety of questions everyday.

Walk through every step of the interview from the minute you walk in and sit down till you stand up to leave. Role playing each aspect of the interview will help you to feel confident and reduce any uncertainty about what to do net because you've already done it.

Have a list of questions available at all times. Find or make study cards and don't hesitate to hand the stack to someone else so that you can get comfortable with not only thinking about and answering the questions, but also with speaking and articulating your thoughts.

All the studying in the world and all the knowledge you acquire is useless if you can't figure out how to articulate those ideas and messages in a fluent way.

Know Yourself

Studying can help you to answer black and white/right and wrong answer questions, but the only way to answer "personality" or abstract questions is to know yourself.

When an interviewer is asking you a "silly" question like what kind of fruit you might be, they are not simply asking what fruit is your favorite but what characteristics about you shine through in your choice.

Every question is a chance to show the judges who you are and why you want to and should be the next rodeo queen.

Your character should be on display in your answers.

For example, if you are passionate about service and think that this is a key attribute to why you would be a good rodeo queen, you might answer the fruit question by elaborating on how you would be an orange so that you can share with those around you.

Putting a piece of yourself into your answers takes a great deal of practice but the best way to start is to get to know yourself.

Start by recognizing why you want to be a rodeo queen and why you would be a good one. Recognize your character traits that would be beneficial to the role and begin recognizing opportunities to let these attributes show.

Now is Better than Later

There is no exact formula to a perfect interview. You will undoubtably be faced with questions you don't know or situations where you can't quite articulate the answer that comes to mind.

Study, Practice, and understand what you bring to the table. The only way to get better at anything and gain confidence in that thing is to work at.

Interview skills can be developed and will help you immensely in all that you do.

If you find yourself struggling with your interviews or just need a little help finding study material feel free to reach out to Cowgirl to Queen with a message and we will be happy to point you in the right direction.

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The Not-So-Simple Life of a Rodeo Queen

You may or may not watch it every year, but we’re all familiar with the Miss America Pageant. Among all the glitz, gowns, and talents of the contestants, it’s no wonder many young girls love tuning in.The Miss America Pageant , was so popular that the rodeo world embraced the tradition and made their very own version - rodeo queens! Rodeo queens live all across the country, representing their rodeo, region or state. No pressure, huh? We asked our very own 2014 Miss Silver Spurs, Whitney Hopkins, about the Pageant and her year as a rodeo queen.You might have only seen a beauty pageant on television, but you can watch the Miss Silver Spurs Pageant live in Kissimmee! Every June, young girls and women from Osceola County compete in one of three age divisions: Miss (ages 15-21), Junior Miss (12-14), or Little Miss (9-11). Similar to a beauty pageant, all the divisions will go through an appearance, interview, and speech portion during the Pageant. However, Miss contestants are also required to show their horsemanship skills. While this may sound daunting, there aren’t any crazy tricks per se. This portion requires Miss contestants to (1) learn a set AQHA (American Quarter Horse Association) reining pattern that shows their control of the horse in certain moves, and (2) perform a freestyle set to a song of their choice to showcase their personality and skill.During the appearance portion, the girls are judged on factors such as their posture, suitability of clothing, and photogenic quality. One major difference between the appearance components of beauty and rodeo pageants is the requirement of Western clothing in rodeo pageants.

We’ve heard about the expenses that beauty queen contestants sometimes incur while preparing for a pageant, so we asked the pro herself, how she obtained her outfits. “When I started out, there was a dress I wanted but it was too short and expensive. So as a fashion designer and merchandise graduate, I just made my own dress! During this time, I learned you don’t have to own the most expensive thing to look the part!” Think of it this way: making your own dress scores your personality points with the judges.The Miss Silver Spurs Pageant is unique because it actually prepares the contestants for the event. Each competitor receives a schedule of meeting times to improve her poise, practice her horsemanship, and learn interview skills.Although the girls may be competing against each other, many speak highly of the friendships they form throughout the competition. Whitney shared with us, “I started competing when I was nine, and even though I didn’t win Little Miss, I made some awesome long-lasting friendships with the girls.”Keep in mind that all the things mentioned above are just some of the things the girls prepare for. This doesn’t necessarily represent all the work that comes after you get the title (and the crown).

“If you’re going to compete, you’ve got to plan ahead and be ready to work. I went to school for 20 hours, worked 40 hours at my job, and had to manage to fit in the pageant. There are days that I’m exhausted, but I just look forward to the bigger picture. There are a lot of girls that consider winning, but don’t consider it as another full-time job. So you need to be ready and up for going to all types of events.”When these girls win the titles of Miss, Junior Miss, or Little Miss, they win more than the crown and glory. They also take on the responsibility of representing Osceola County and the Silver Spurs Rodeo. They need to to be educated on the history of the Silver Spurs Club, knowledgeable about rodeo events, and aware of current events in general.If you think you (or your daughter!) have what it takes to represent the Silver Spurs and Osceola County, look for an application early each year. Applications cost $85 and are due in February, with the Pageant occurring in June. Or maybe you’re just interested in seeing what it’s all about!Want to see what the Silver Spurs Rodeo is all about? Check our event schedule to see when our next rodeo is and when tickets go on sale. Between the action-packed rodeo events and the family-fun activities, you won’t want to miss the rodeo when it comes to town!

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Rodeo Queens

By christina shepherd mcguire // photography by meg potter.

As dusk approaches on a hot Friday night in July, pickup trucks pour onto the grounds of the Teton County Idaho Fairgrounds north of Driggs. I pull my Toyota FJ Cruiser into a dusty parking space, sandwiched between a few of the trucks, grab my camp chair, and proceed to find my friends on the north end of the arena. I swing my sandaled foot over the tailgate of my friend Katie’s rusty green 1978 Ford F-150 Supercab and settle in among friends dressed in cowboy boots and faded jeans for a front-row seat to the action.

“You look like you’re dressed for a wine tasting,” says Katie about my white linen shirt and flip flops (not exactly rodeo attire, as, after 25 years living in the valley, I still can’t ditch my East Coast roots).

Then, Rex Hansen’s voice comes over the loudspeaker as the local rodeo girls make their grand entrance into the arena on breathtakingly beautiful, cantering horses. Dressed in felt hats, sashes, and sparkling belt buckles, the royalty circles the arena and forms a line with their horses in front of the audience. Little girls swoon, and I, recognizing my dear friend and neighbor Sydney Mitchell, Teton County, Idaho’s Junior Rodeo Queen, am overcome with a sense of pride for the heritage of our valley. We bow our heads for the Cowboy Prayer as I stare in awe at the cowgirl ambassadors before me and realize the knowledge, skill, grit, and determination it takes to uphold this cultural stamp steeped deep in tradition.

Beyond the Dress

Some liken the experience of rodeo queening to that of a beauty pageant, as the auditioning process involves modeling a gown.  Yet, “putting on formal wear is just one small part of the process,” says Donnie Wackerman, Teton County, Wyoming’s Fair Board Royalty Director. “Rodeo queening involves a lot of knowledge and horsemanship skills. It’s based off of many different things.”

Wackerman outlines the royalty auditioning process, which includes a segment on formal wear, horsemanship, an interview, and a speech. The modeling portion of the audition involves dressing up in your best (and fanciest) outfit that is judged both on style and western flair. Next, the older girls, ages 14 to 24, are asked interview questions on current happenings in the rodeo world, as well as basic rodeo facts. 

“Questions can include things like ‘What’s the name of one rough stock event? ’or ‘ How does the barrier system work in team r oping? ’” explains Wackerman. “[The girls] are Teton County Fair and Rodeo’s ambassadors—our face to the public. So, they need to be able to educate people about all things rodeo.”

After that, the girls each present their speech on a predetermined topic (last year in Teton Valley, Idaho, the topic reflected the theme of the fair: “Good ‘Ole Summertime). Then, the girls change into their riding attire and perform a basic reining pattern with their horse. The younger girls, ages 8 to 13, are asked simple questions and compete in the horsemanship category, as well, conducting rail work around the arena fence and demonstrating the basics of the walk, trot, lope, and stop. 

Next, the judges compile their results and award the participants with the role of Rodeo Queen (ages 18 to 24), Lady-in-Waiting (in Wyoming only), Junior Queen (ages 14 to 17), Princess (ages 11 to 13), Pee Wee Princess (ages 8 to 10), and Mini Princess (ages 4 to 7, Idaho only).

Queens and Junior Queens are expected to attend most rodeo events, participate in the Grand Entrance, carry the state and American flags, and wrangle the small livestock during the events. They are also present at the Teton County, Wyoming, and Idaho Fairs, handing out prizes and educating attendees. 

“They have to be able to get down and dirty on their horse to help things run smoothly,” says Kelsey Smaellie, Teton Valley, Idaho, Fair and Royalty Committee board member. “It’s a responsibility to be trusted to gather animals, as needed, and to help with all the events at the fair, including pig wrestling and horse pulls.”

Smaellie’s daughter Maddie Rae, age 5, carried out the duties of Mini Princess last summer by attending the Fourth of July parade in Victor, walking the grandstands while her bio was rehearsed, and giving treat bags to the kids in the rodeo stands. 

Queen for Much More than a Day 

Jordan Lutz, 2021 Miss Teton County, Wyoming, Fair and Rodeo Queen, is a first-generation cowgirl and started queening when she was 8. 

“I heard about [rodeo royalty] through the grapevine when I was in 4-H, I we signed up,” she says. “My first title was Pee Wee Princess Attendant. I went to almost every rodeo and thought I was the coolest thing ever to call myself a ‘Rodeo Princess.’” 

Lutz dreamed of being a rodeo queen ever since she worked as a summer trail guide at the A-OK Corral in Jackson. Growing up, her parents never owned horses or participated in rodeo, but her mom, originally from Cheyenne, would take Lutz to the Cody rodeo where she’d see the queens in action; she even met the Australia’s Rodeo Queen at the Cheyenne Frontier Day event. These experiences instilled in her a drive to go for the title.

“I was always an attendant. Then, I tried out for Pee Wee Princess, Junior and Senior Princesses, and Lady-in-Waiting. I didn’t [actually] get my first title until my second year running for Junior Princess,” she explains.

Lutz says her role of Rodeo Queen has furthered her knowledge of western heritage, helped her become a better horseback rider, and taught her how to speak in public. 

“It has opened my eyes to my future career,” she says. “I’m going to school for animal science, agriculture, and equine studies. I’ve been thinking about going into an equine nutrition role. I also want to explore equine massage and chiropractic work, or just be an ag vet on farms.” 

Samantha Thoenig’s (2022 Miss Teton County, Wyoming, Fair and Rodeo Queen) path is a little different. In the 70s, her grandpa, a local jeweler, crafted the queen crown for the county, complete with Wyoming jade and diamonds. She’s participated in the rodeo—as a barrel racer and team roper—since age eleven and used to ogle over the queens. This season, she decided to try it out for a chance to wear her grandpa’s crown.

“Before I [decided to audition], I thought all rodeo queens had to do was sit there and look pretty carrying the flag,” she says. “But, it’s not just about looking pretty. Horsemanship is the biggest part of the [competition]; it’s where you get your points to win. I probably wouldn’t have won if I didn’t have solid horsemanship skills.”

Thoenig chased her dreams to Arizona this winter to “get her name out there” on the pro circuit as a barrel racer. She’s hoping to land sponsors and fulfill her goal of riding professionally. Still, she looks forward to returning to Jackson and her queen duties this summer.

Lily Wilcox’s mother Michaele, former Teton Valley Idaho Rodeo Committee Chair, says Lily always wanted to be like her dad, Brock, who is a “big cowboy and roper.”  So, this Driggs native tagged along on all of her father’s western outings. But it was Fred Crane, Rex Hansen’s rodeo announcer counterpart (who passed on in 2017), that upped her stoke for queening. 

“Fred Crane used to ride his pinto mare and announce from down below while he was riding,” says Lily. “He really got the crowd involved. … I’d climb up on the fence and talk to Fred. I wanted to be out there on my horse, like Fred, making a difference.”

As she got older, Lily enrolled in 4-H, raising and showing pigs and goats, and participated in leather crafting and sewing. Then, in 2015, she ran for Pee Wee Princess and won. Since then, she’s been Princess twice, Junior Queen, and then, last summer, took over the Rodeo Queen position for Teton Valley, Idaho. 

Lily’s favorite duty as queen is chasing out the livestock for breakaways and tie-downs. 

“There are always little kids that come to the fence and want to pet our horses,” she says. “It makes me happy that I’m able to provide this role model for kids—they look up to me! … That was me with Fred.”

Like Lutz and Thoenig, the experience of rodeo royalty has heightened Lily’s love for agricultural pursuits. During her freshman year of high school, she competed in the Future Farmers of America’s (FFA) Creed Speaking Leadership Development Event (LDE), where she competed in the public speaking category. She won first place in this event for Teton High School and came in second in districts. This past school year, Lily also participated in the Distinguished Young Women scholarship program, auditioning in categories like fitness, talent, interviewing, and self-expression. Lily says that her experience with rodeo royalty gave her the confidence she needed for these events.

It’s a Cowgirl Thing

Thoenig takes pride in promoting the cowboy heritage of Jackson. She aims to set up a booth in Jackson’s Town Square this summer to market rodeo culture and raise awareness.

“A lot of the people who have recently moved to Jackson—they don’t even know [rodeoing] is a thing,” she says. “I want to show the newcomers that Jackson is still a western town and that rodeoing is a huge part of it.” 

Sydney Mitchell feels like she’s contributing to the valley’s culture by holding the Idaho flag and representing “Teton Valley, Idaho” during the rodeo’s Grand Entry. 

“We are happy to live here, and we are grateful for that,” she says. “Our rodeo and fair duties—holding the flags, handing out awards, and having little kids look up to us—are important. We are honoring the sport of rodeo and encouraging the 4-H participants who put their time and energy into raising livestock.” 

Smaellie loves the values that rodeo royalty is instilling in her children.

“They will grow up learning to honor their western heritage,” she says. “It’s few and far between that we have opportunities like this to 1. experience, and 2. participate in. It’s not just a hobby. It’s a lifestyle.”

A Tribute to Rex …

April 3, 1953 – november 21, 2021.

Rex Hansen (aka “Cowboy”) used his “gift of gab” to entertain audiences as an announcer for the Teton Valley, Idaho, Rodeo. On his ranch in Tetonia, you could often find him feeding cattle in the wintertime via a horse-drawn sleigh, with Sydney Mitchell and her family by his side. 

“I loved Rex as the announcer, not only because he always told the same funny jokes, but because I grew up knowing him—I saw him almost every day,” says Mitchell. “He loved sharing his knowledge about rodeo and how it impacted his life. … I remember one time when I was pole bending in slack, he said, ‘I don’t know if her mom and dad know, but [Sydney] is my unofficial grandchild.’”

Stay Connected

The Rodeo Queen: Symbol Of Community And Western Women

• Episode Details

The Community of Rodeo:

The world of rodeo and word “community” go hand-in-hand. With roots dating back to America’s agricultural and ranching past, rodeo has continued to pave-the-way for the preservation and protection of a lifestyle that is still relevant in our modern world. While modern advancements have changed the course of America’s Western Heritage, the love for this lifestyle continues to thrive through the sport of rodeo. 

History of Rodeo Royalty

Rodeo in the West been a local tradition since it was started by families as a community festival with horse races, picnics, games and a parade. From the beginning rodeos depend on the spirit, dedication, hard work and collaboration of volunteer members to provide their community with an opportunity to experience true western heritage through the historical sport of rodeo.

Riding Pretty: Rodeo Royalty in the American West (Women in the West) by  Renée M. Laegreid  (Author)

Riding Pretty examines the history, evolution, and significance of the community-sponsored rodeo queen, from the introduction of this new phenomenon at the 1910 Pendleton Round-Up to the advent of Miss Rodeo America in 1956 and places the main theme—connection of queens to community—within the context of the evolution of rodeo as a spectator sport and the changing concepts of gender relations in the American West.

From 1910 to 1956, the community-sponsored rodeo queen’s role expanded, both in terms of her responsibilities and in terms of the community she represented, local, regional, and national. While each community adapted the rodeo queen phenomenon to suit the characteristics of its own celebration, the main characteristics of the role remained: the rodeo queen as a symbol of the local rodeo and as a metaphor for western women.

Meet Our Cheyenne Frontier Days Rodeo Queens:

Mary Caldwell Weppner, Miss Frontier 1961

Mary was born and raised in Cheyenne. Mary is founding board member of the Old West Museum, serving on the committee that started the “Cheyenne Frontier Days Western Art Show and Sale” for thirty years. She went to Stephens College in Missouri and graduated from University of Wyoming majoring in speech and education. Mary is married to Ed Weppner. She and her husband Ed have three children, Rob, Ginny, and Tricia. Mary’s grandfather, Dugald Whitaker moved to Wyoming in the late 1890s and developed the Whitaker Ranch along Horse Creek near Cheyenne after following one of his older brothers to Wyoming. Mary’s favorite memories of her reign as Miss Frontier was traveling with Princess Bluewater as they promoted Cheyenne Frontier Days across the West especially traveling throughout Colorado.

Shirley Holmes Churchill, Miss Frontier 1979

Shirley has a long-time involvement with Cheyenne Frontier Days.  She began riding on floats and wagons in the parades as a youngster and then horseback sidesaddle.  Shirley was the first Miss Frontier to be presented the beautiful Miss Frontier saddle.  She rode this saddle in every performance for 30 years after serving as Miss Frontier, first as Miss Rodeo Wyoming 1980 and then as a run-out girl and overseeing the timed event cattle and sorting crew.  Shirley is the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Floyd R Holmes, Jr.  Shirley was raised on and is now the owner of the 114-year-old 'Centennial' family ranch on Little Bear Route north of Cheyenne.  The ranch was homesteaded in 1910 by her paternal grandparents.  True to the Holmes family's longstanding involvement with Cheyenne Frontier Days, Shirley was the third of four Holmes family Miss Frontiers.  Shirley was inducted into the Cheyenne Frontier Days Hall of Fame in 2009.  She most recently volunteers time to the Cheyenne Frontier Days Old West Museum.  She and husband, Brad, continue the ranching traditions and legacy today on their ranches in Colorado and Wyoming.  Shirley has said; "I don't know if I am a part of Cheyenne Frontier Days or if Cheyenne Frontier Days is a part of me".

Rylee Anderson, Miss Frontier  2017 

Rylee Anderson was born and raised in Burns, Wyoming and is a graduate of the University of Wyoming where she earned her Bachelor of Science Degree in Agricultural Communications. Rylee was selected to become Lady in Waiting for Cheyenne Frontier Days in August of 2015 and went on to serve as Miss Frontier in 2017. She feels so fortunate to have been able to serve her year as Miss Frontier alongside her best friend, Emily Cameron, who was her Lady in Waiting. Rylee made the move to Phoenix, Arizona where she works for Wallick & Volk, Inc as a licensed Mortgage Advisor almost three years ago. She splits her time nearly in half, traveling back and forth from Arizona to Wyoming. She's looking forward to spending a great deal of her summer in Cheyenne and is excited for all things Cheyenne Frontier Days. 

Cheyenne Frontier Days

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• LET'S COLLABORATE

Wednesday, July 11, 2012

So you wanna be a rodeo queen.

19 comments:

Rule 14: Be a freakin gorgeous girl Rule 15: Have a freakin gorgeous boyfriend to match! Hehe love the post, I don't know much about rodeo but it seems really great. have a good day :)

You are precious!!! You seriously make my day when you comment!! Thank you thank yoU! I hope you have a great day too!

Ok... So I'm not at work... Have had time to see all the details here... You did such a great job! This looks so clean and cute! Maybe you could be Hop Sings part-time blog guru even though you're gonna be far away! Let's negotiate! I want a photo of you holding a big sign...Will work for clothes! Haaahaaaaha! Miss you!

Thank you so much! And oh my gosh!!! I would love to be Hop Sings part time blog girl! Lets figure it out :) and oh my gosh, what a good idea with the sign! I'm on it :)

Wow, I never knew trying to be a rodeo Queen/Princess was so hard! Thanks for the information. Maybe one day I'll try to become a rodeo queen... :)

My dream is to become a rodeo queen. I've had this dream for nearly 8 years!! I love this, this is so cute and you are beautiful! I'm currently seeking resourses to persue my dream. I love this!

hi I just want to say that you are really pretty and u r the types of girls I look up to im 13 and running for miss jr. rowell ranch rodeo queen I think I know my stuff but I was hoping that you could give me some pointers and were to get some queen close it would be a lot of help if you could thanks

Hi sweetie! I would love to help you out and give you some pointers. Email me at [email protected] if you want to chat :). xoxo

you gave me the motivation to a rodeo queen one day thank you <3 <3

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I've always wanted to be a rodeo queen!!!! I never had the money though. But I have a wonderful horse Caroline that I love and that's all that matters... you're gorgeous though :)

I love your post! I am currently running for our county rodeo queen. I was wondering if you could help me with some tips and questions, like where to get clothes, blingy jeans or not, does hat crown really matter (as in brick top versus what I would call a cowboy crown)? I think I know how to get there and have the drive and desire to represent my county but its the little details that I'm having a hard time with. :) You're gorgeous and thank you for the post!

I love your post! I am currently running for our county rodeo queen. I was wondering if you could help me with some tips and questions, like where to get clothes, blingy jeans or not, does hat crown really matter (as in brick top versus what I would call a cowboy crown)? I think I know how to get there and have the drive and desire to represent my county but its the little details that I'm having a hard time with. :) You're gorgeous!

So I'm entering my first competition this year and in 17 this year. But I really have no idea were to buy my clothes without breacking my bank, I would love if anyone would drop me some suggestions.

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5 Style Tips Worthy of a Rodeo Queen

Becoming a rodeo queen requires grit, good horsemanship, and giving back to the community, but a great sense of style is also a must. Not all of us ladies are born with that sense. So, here are some tips to help you feel like a rodeo queen even if you've never held a title in your life.

•   Big bouncy curls and styled but natural looking waves are in . Even if your hair is naturally wavy or curly, you need to invest in a quality curling iron and hair products such as heat protectant and holding spray. The former will help your hair stay healthy despite all that styling, and the latter will keep those curls and waves in place.
• Learn how to do bold but tasteful makeup looks , and use makeup setting spray. There's a ton of "how-to" makeup videos on YouTube, so find a makeup style that looks good on you, watch, learn, and practice, practice, practice. Practice sure makes perfect.
• Don't copy others when styling your wardrobe . This may sound strange if you're someone who's not very good at putting outfits together, but there's a method behind this madness. What's most important is that you feel good in the clothes you're wearing. If you copy someone else's style, chances are you'll feel like a fish out of water. So, the best thing to do is think about the types of clothes you feel most comfortable and confident wearing, and then glam them up a notch or two.
• Don't overdo it on sparkle . Rhinestones are fine in the arena but might be a bit much at a birthday party, a date, or a girls' night out, so tone down that sparkle depending on the occasion.
• Bold bling is in... in moderation . You choose your clothes depending on your body type and features, and the same should apply to your jewelry. Learn what shapes and colors suit your facial features and hair color. That will help you choose your bling more confidently. Need some tips on how to do that? Buckaroo Bling blog has quite a few you can use.

Now, go and put together that signature glam look of yours! I bet you'll be feeling like a rodeo queen in no time, even if you've never entered a single pageant. Need some fun bling in bold colors to complete the look? Buckaroo Bling has you covered. Visit our website!

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47 advisories in effect for 23 regions in the area

Is your child speech delayed here are some exercises you can do at home.

Faith Braverman , Digital Content Producer

The recent layoffs at Texas Children’s Hospital exposed an underlying problem in the autism community.

The hospital announced on August 6 that they were laying off 5% off their staff , but assured worried patients that this would not impact their care.

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However, several parents reached out to KPRC 2 , saying the layoffs affected their child’s speech therapist.

Benjamin Zimmerman’s son, Artie, has trouble communicating due to an autism diagnosis. Zimmerman said they’ve seen Artie show progress since starting speech therapy, so he was heartbroken when he found out about the layoffs.

“We had to wait a really long time for him to be assessed and to find somebody available,” Zimmerman said. “And even just to get a facility to take him in for speech therapy.”

“ My wife and I watch the speech therapist, and we do our best to kind of mimic what she was doing, but we’re not trained. And we’re not professionals,” he added.

Thankfully, our reporting led to a positive outcome for this family. After initially putting him on a waitlist, TCH said they found a new speech therapist for Artie and booked him an appointment.

• Children at Texas Children’s Hospital placed on waitlist for speech therapist following layoffs

As a parent to an autistic child myself, I know all too well what the Zimmermans are going through.

My five-year-old son, Noah, was diagnosed just after his third birthday, and the struggle to get him treatment was arduous.

We called a number of speech therapists and Applied Behavioral Analysis therapy programs, only to be placed on waitlist after waitlist.

By the time we got him care, months had passed, at a time when professionals say early intervention is key.

• Raising a child with autism

During that time and in the years since, my husband and I have taken it upon ourselves to do all we can at home to help his speech progress. It’s true a trained professional is best, but if you find yourself on a waitlist, here are some exercises you can do for your speech delayed child.

• Model Language

The first speech therapist we ever took Noah to encouraged us to do this: “Imagine you’re a radio host and you can’t have dead air,” she explained. We narrate everything we are doing when Noah is watching us, and he will sometimes mimic what we do and say, modeling our language. Make sure to use phrases that contain words that your child already knows, progressing until you build bigger and bigger sentences.

The very first time we heard Noah communicate, it was through a song. We have been singing and playing children’s songs for him since he was born. One day it was raining, and Noah looked out the window and sang, “Rain, rain, go away!” He has mastered dozens of songs in multiple genres since, from Broadway musicals to rock bands like Queen! We will often sing the clean-up song to help him clean, or the going to bed song when it’s night-night time, and he always understands, even if he doesn’t cooperate! Songs are a great way to introduce new words and concepts to children who struggle processing spoken language.

• Visual Aids

One of our most successful exercises involves visual aids! We use flashcards and picture books to help Noah learn visually. Noah has learned the majority of his words this way. He can name every planet in our solar system, every farm animal, and every number up to 100! We are always introducing new words into his flash cards and picture books to help expand his vocabulary.

• Sensory Play

Keeping Noah focused can often be a challenge during speech therapy sessions, but if there’s one thing that can always keep his attention, it’s water sensory play! Whether we’re at the pool or just playing in the bathroom sink, he is never happier than when he’s splashing. We also use it as an opportunity to engage with him. When he spills water and makes a mess, we ask if he can clean it up, and he’ll grab a towel. Making sure your child is really participating in the session will make it more effective and enjoyable for everyone.

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About the Author

Faith braverman.

Faith Braverman has been working in journalism for over ten years. After starting out in Washington, D.C. she's now back in Houston. Faith wears many hats at KPRC 2, writing for broadcast, digital, and tracking down interesting stories. She is also a proud mom, autism advocate, diehard Astros fan, corgi enthusiast, and a Houston foodie.