I had a blast starting the month of April off on the right foot, or should I say boot? I had the pleasure of getting to know the team better at the Chinook location Lammles, picking out some new clothes and doing some shopping!
I then made my way to High River for the Miss Rodeo Canada Alumni clinic. It was such a pleasure to connect with girls on all different paths of life. All of us coming together for a shared passion of rodeo and the role of being an ambassador was exhilarating! I was so thankful to be able to impart some of my knowledge and encourage the girls on their journey.
Driving my Innisfail Chrysler Ram 1500 down the QE2 to our capital city of Edmonton I had a wonderful sponsor tour with Cowan Graphics Inc., Chateau Lacombe, 840 CFCW, Lammle's and Edmonton’s Best Hotels! I love connecting with the incredible organizations that keep me on the road and expressing my gratitude whenever I can!
I then took a trip to our friends at the Calgary Stampede for the canvas auction! I cheered on our chuckwagon drivers as they received sponsorships and exchanged hearty handshakes. I am so excited to watch the Rangeland Derby this year and stomp my boots loud as they come down the home stretch!
Smithbilt Hats Inc. was my next stop as I had to check out the new building! It was so cool to see how the progress was coming and catch up with the team as they prepare for the big move! Speaking of new beginnings, I then found myself down in Sundre for the competition and crowning of our new Miss Rodeo Sundre. As an alumni, it was incredible to watch the hard work, dedication and passion of the contestants over the weekend.
I packed my bags for a very anticipated visit to Dawson Creek and made my way north for their spring rodeo! I had the privilege to spend most of my time with Longhorn Oilfield Services during the visit. We attended many schools to talk to the kids about the rodeo and answer questions about our way of life. It was so rewarding!
After I returned home, I had another full circle moment as an alumni of Miss Ponoka Stampede. Our contestants competed hard and I was so fulfilled to be a part of the selection day! I am excited to be back in Ponoka for the Tarp Auction sale to officially crown our new Queen for 2024!
I then made my way back to Red Deer for a late night Lammle's shopping event as well as Horse Expo! It was so much fun visiting with vendors, watching some clinics and kicking off the Trainer Challenge.
Taber Spring Classic Rodeo was the first rodeo of the weekend where I met with our new Miss Rodeo Taber and flew our beautiful maple leaf flag. After the Friday performance I then drove towards the mountains and attended the Kananaskis Pro Rodeo for the Saturday and Sunday performances. It was so much fun being able to represent at two different places over the weekend!
With my whole heart,
Miss Rodeo Canada 2024
Kaylee Shantz
