2016 Pageant: Day 5

By Wrangler Network contributor Miss Rodeo America

Today’s highlight was the Miss Rodeo America Pageant WNFR luncheon. Each MRA contestant appeared on stage, modeling their unique-to-each state queen chaps. The girls then drew three impromptu questions to respond to. Categories included:

– Equine terms
– Rodeo terms
– Rodeo names and places

The papers drawn had only one word falling under these categories (i.e., “hooey”), and the girls had to elaborate on and explain that thing, person or place.

The luncheon was sponsored by the Greeley Stampede and Ogden Frontier Days Rodeo. Miss Rodeo Idaho, Dusti Olsen won the WPRA Chap Award. Her chaps are sky blue in color with white trim, silver accenting and a simple, uncluttered design. They were described by one designer as, “not overly elaborate and very elegant.”

Later, PRCA Commissioner Karl Stressman spoke about the state of the PRCA. He said things were better than ever and that last year there were 624 PRCA rodeos in the U.S.

In the evening, MRA contestants went to the opening rodeo performance of the Wrangler National Finals Rodeo. Lauren went to the first buckle ceremony and awarded the first night’s winners.

With just three days left until coronation, the girls are feeling slightly sleep deprived but full of high-powered enthusiasm. One of the most incredible aspects of the week has been the exhibition of outstanding camaraderie and support between the contestants. In just one short week, these rodeo queens make memories and friends for life.