Prepare for a rodeo Queen Pageant: PArt 1 - What to study?
Rodeo Queen Pageants require a lot of knowledge about different aspects of the rodeo and western industry. Here is a quick start guide of what to start studying, so that you can begin to prepare for your next rodeo queen pageant.
What rodeo and rodeo association does the pageant fall under?
You will want to learn as much as you can about the rodeo you are representing, including its governing association.
The most popular associations are the PRCA and the IPRA, but there may be more state or region specific rodeo associations in your area. The rodeos specific resources as well as the association's website, social media pages, rulebook and media guide are all fantastic places to start learning about the rodeo and the association you want to represent.
2. Horse Knowledge
A rodeo queen has to know about all things horses. Breed knowledge, vet care, tack, the list could go on and on. The easiest way: spend time with your vet, farrier, and trainer. Either ask them to explain or look up anything you don't know much about.
AQHA has an app available for their handbook, so it is readily available on your phone.
Merck Vet also has an app that allows you to search for more information about veterinary related illnesses and ailments.
4H has a horse science book (and its cheap!) and their horse quiz bowl is a great source for potential questions.
3. Current Events
While this is mainly directed at those going for senior queen titles, keeping up with big current events and politics both in and out of the rodeo arena are crucial.
For Rodeo, some must have knowledge: current world champions, rulebook changes, awards and current sponsors.
For Politics: who is the president and VP, your states governor, when are the upcoming elections in your state, voting rules, party system, etc..
Major World Events: one app I love is Ground News which batches similar stories together and lets you see where the article falls on the left/right spectrum so you can look at both perspectives.
4. Agriculture
The western industry represents agriculture at its core. Our farmers and ranchers are pivotal for our countries food and resources, and yet they represent less than 2% of the US population.
The USDA and your states agriculture department is a good start to your research.
Farmers, ranchers, and even stock contractors can directly give more insight on cattle and the agriculture industries.
Animal Rights vs Animal Welfare also tend to use agriculture against the western industry, but having the knowledge and facts can help you educate others that are wanting and willing to learn.
5. Your Why
The answer to this question is going to change with every person that you ask, and it may change depending on when you ask it in your rodeo queen journey. But before you compete for a rodeo queen pageant, spend some time and ask yourself: why do you want to do this? What does representing this rodeo queen title mean to you?
Your why and your passion is what you will need to get you through the preparation, pageant, and your year. This can also be a great start to developing a platform for your year and figuring out the legacy you want to leave behind.
YOU GOT THIS!
Rodeo queening is not easy. There is a lot of information you need to know, and you have to have a passion for what you are setting out to represent. But I also think it is one of the most rewarding things you can do. The knowledge will take you far in the industry, but the discipline. skills, and drive will take you far in life.
