Meet The Queen; Colorado
By Wrangler Network contributor Miss Rodeo America
The sport of rodeo is so unique in that it really is a lifestyle that holds a great deal of tradition. It aligns with my faith, American pride and appreciation for western living. The Duke of the Chutes, Harry Vold put it best, “Colorado is the hub of the wheel for rodeo!” Home to the World’s First Rodeo, the Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association, Pro Rodeo Hall of Fame and Women’s Professional Rodeo Association (just to name a few), I’m proud to call Colorado home.
Reigning from Castle Rock, I am a graduate of West Texas A&M University with a Bachelor of Science in Mass Communication, emphasizing in Broadcast Journalism and Advertising & Public Relations. I plan on obtaining a Master’s in Marketing and pursuing a career in the western industry. It’s exciting to see the expanding opportunities to make an influence with a sense of tradition and innovation.
My journey to becoming Miss Rodeo Colorado has been 10 years in the making when I met Miss Rodeo Colorado at my local fair and rodeo. I credit participating in 4H and FFA as the start, holding officer positions and building an appreciation for agriculture. Competing in National Little Britches Rodeo Association as an all-around competitor in the breakaway roping, team roping, barrel racing and goat-tying provided an appreciation for the sport from a competitors and production point of view. I also competed for the WTAMU rodeo team. Any time I can get a rope in my hand, I’m a pretty happy gal.
There are several Miss Rodeo Colorado’s to be thanked for showing me that a young lady can be a cowgirl, yet graceful and setting prime examples of what the true job of a rodeo queen holds. This has led me to believe and share with other young women that “You can hold yourself to a standard of grace, not perfection.” Strive for excellence, but when you handle situations with grace you’ll be amazed at what you can really achieve.
The Denver National Western Stock Show kicked off the New Year and I have enjoyed every moment. It has been an honor to represent those rodeo traditions beginning with sharing American Pride. This year I’m excited to be working with Shadow Warriors Project, the only charity of its kind that is dedicated to the support of private military security contractors. Mark Geist, a private security contractor, who was injured while protecting the people inside the CIA security Annex from a terror attack on September 12, 2012 heads up the project.
My dream of wearing the iconic turquoise tiara worn by Miss Rodeo Colorado is just beginning and I look forward to the many adventures ahead. With a servant’s heart, I’m blessed to carry on the legacy of cowgirl attitude, pioneer spirit, and an American brand of courage that every Miss Rodeo Colorado has exemplified. Aiming to encourage and grow others, I’m excited to promote the Greeley Stampede and all that rodeo embodies with today’s youngest buckaroos to yesterday’s Greatest Generation.
God Bless Down the Rodeo Road,
Madelaine Mills