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OCTOBER 2015
PA R K E R C O U N T Y T O D AY
It takes a lot to become a rodeo queen – it’s more than being a
pretty girl wearing spangles sitting
on a horse. A rodeo queen has to
be knowledgeable about her horse,
about rodeos, current events, be able
to ride any kind of horse, answer
questions on the spot, be stylish and
personable.
“I never realized the amount of
work it takes to become a rodeo
queen and what it takes to be successful at it,” said rodeo announcer
and famed trick roper Anthony Lucia.
“They have to have knowledge of all
things rodeo, as well as staying up to
date on rule changes and stay educated so they can educate the public
on our beloved sport. The dedication
these young women display is quite
inspiring.”
Some wonder if it’s worth it, all
of the hours of studying, expensive
wardrobe and countless sacrifices.
Absolutely. Rodeo queen pageants
are created to build strong women
within the rodeo industry and promote the sport of rodeo. The pageant
journey teaches skills young women
carry with them the rest of their lives.
Win or lose, there are life skills and
lessons gained in competition.
A key reason I decided to compete in rodeo queen pageants is the
scholarship opportunities available.
Because of scholarships I have won,
I will graduate from Texas Tech
University debt free and all college
expenses paid. The Miss Rodeo Texas
organization is currently awarding to
Miss Rodeo Texas $18,000 in scholarships, with the hopes in the future to
win $25,000 in scholarship and a car
for Miss Rodeo Texas to keep.
I was honored to attend the Miss
Rodeo Texas Pagent in June representing as Miss Rodeo Sandhills.
Sandhills Teen Queen, Snow Lopez
and I cheered on Miss Sandhills Princess Maddie Stewart as she competed
for Miss Rodeo Texas Princess title.
Madison Ward
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