My final flight as Miss Rodeo Canada was to the bright lights of Las Vegas. I was so honoured to be a part of the Miss Rodeo America Pageant as a guest to cheer on my American sash sisters on their journey to the crown, as well as the current queen, Emma Cameron. I was so thrilled to watch the public speaking, chap luncheon, horsemanship, fashion show as well as the crowning! Codi joined me in Vegas a few days later to catch the crowning of her Miss Rodeo America, Callie Mueller from South Dakota! Christmas also came early for Codi and I, as she received her beautiful suitcase purse from ArrowheadNow to carry everything she could need, and create conversations everywhere she goes! I also received two beautiful jackets from Double D Ranchwear, I am so grateful for their sponsorship of Miss Rodeo Canada to help us ladies look our best!
It was an incredibly busy two weeks as we attended the Gold Card Room, hosted by the Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association, viewing parties at Mable’s BBQ at our amazing home away from home, Palms Hotel and Casino, Montana Silversmiths go round buckle presentations, the breakaway finals, and autograph signings! I had so much fun alongside my predecessor Mackenzie Skeels, MRC 2023, as well as Codi Wilson, MRC2025, as we watched the *** round of the Wrangler National Finals Rodeo! We cheered loud and proud for our Canadian athletes, thank you so much to Joan Wanchuk for making that experience happen for us ladies! I was so privileged on Canada night to have an interview with Live with Lucia where we talked about the end of my year and all of my adventures with the title. I also had the privilege to speak with Katy Lucas live on the Cowboy Channel prior to the performance where I carried our Maple Leaf banner for the final time. Wrapping up my experience in Las Vegas feels very surreal and full circle. Thank you to my rodeo family for embracing me this year. I am so blessed to have family across the world!
365 days signing off, “With my whole heart,”
That line served as a reminder of how short one year truly can be, and encouraged me every day to bring my entire heart into this role. Being crowned Miss Rodeo Canada 2024 has been a dream come true, but I could have never anticipated how much this experience would shape me. Rodeo has given me a venue to learn, grow, and share my love and pride for our western heritage. It has been an honor to serve this sport as an ambassador, and I will continue to cheer on my rodeo family for the rest of my life.
As I take my final ride as Miss Rodeo Canada, I do so with a heart full of gratitude, memories and love for this incredible sport. Though this chapter of my life is coming to a close, I know that the friendships, lessons and experiences I have gained will last forever. Thank you to my incredible family, friends, sponsors, board of directors and everyone that made this year so special.
To the competitors of the 2025 season, you have inspired me with your grace, determination and passion. Together we have all shared many miles and stories, and I will always treasure the friendships that we’ve formed. As I pass my crown to the next Miss Rodeo Canada, I implore her to embrace every moment, as it truly goes by so fast.
Thank you rodeo fans, for filling my heart this year.
With my whole heart
Miss Rodeo Canada 2024
Kaylee Shantz
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