Monday, March 7, 2011

National Western Stock Show & Silver Spurs Rodeo


My year as Miss Rodeo Wisconsin 2011 began with a trip to Denver, Colorado for the National Western Stock Show (NWSS). Livestock is an essential part of rodeo so the showing of livestock, ranching, and the competition of rodeo go hand in hand. In 16 days there were 23 PRCA rodeos and many livestock and exotic animals (llamas, alpacas, etc.) shown on the grounds. Congratulations to our own Wisconsinite, Paige Proctor (Junction City) who took the Grand Champion in Junior Breeding Heifers.

A big thank you goes to Jodie Martin-Witt, queen coordinator, and her committee. Jodie’s staff was there 100% to help the queens and they all did a commendable job at making us feel welcome.
The event, that I liked helping with the most, was Mutton Bustin’. All of the kids received huge trophies from the cowboys competing at the Rodeo. They hoisted the kids, with their trophies, over their heads like champions. The smiles on the kids’ faces were priceless!

During the final rodeo, the Green Bay Packers happened to be playing against the Bears for a trip to the Super Bowl. To see over 8,000 fans in Colorado applaud the Packers’ win was awe inspiring and once again made me proud of the state I represent. I treasure the memories, opportunities and new friends that I met in Colorado. They were amazing!

My next adventure was to Florida for the Silver Spurs Rodeo in Kissimmee. After this Wisconsin winter, I was looking forward to the warm weather. This was a new adventure for this Wisconsin cowgirl. I had heard many great things from previous queens and their experiences about the Florida trip.

Not only did Silver Spurs host a great rodeo, we were also privileged to experience a few out of the ordinary things such as hog hunting and a trip through the wetlands on the swamp buggies. Four school visits was on the agenda where we taught the children about rodeo and then we had some fun. We held mini rodeos for the children right in the classroom. At the nod of a head, a chair became a bucking bull and barrel racing was done at high speed.

Thank you to the Silver Spurs Rodeo committee and to Mark and Laura Kessler for their generosity and organization of all the activities for the attending queens. A special thank you to my host family: Karl, Tracy and their family. I had the experience of a lifetime in Kissimmee and I am truly blessed to have had the opportunity to meet all of these wonderful people. I appreciate all of their kindness and generosity. Riding in the warm Florida sunshine was a treat!

My next adventure is to the Dodge National Circuit Finals Rodeo in Oklahoma City. The DNCFR is the showcase event of the circuit season with 7 performances in 4 days. I can't wait to go there and watch all the excitement and participate in this great rodeo. Happy trails until next time.

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