My year kicked off with the idea to spotlight my fellow Canadian rodeo queens and open up more conversations about what makes each program special. I am so excited to be sharing these interviews with you throughout the year! I had a very special event with the Crestomere 4-H multi club, being a speaker at their public speaking workshop. As someone that used to struggle with public speaking, it was a very full circle moment to talk about how to overcome any challenges and turn their skills into a strength.
I had the absolute pleasure of flying to the Golden State of California to celebrate the enormous success of C5 Rodeo putting on the very first San Diego Rodeo in Petco Park! I had so much fun with my sash sister Miss Rodeo California and I am so thankful for the amazing hospitality of C5 Rodeo. Congratulations to the very first champions of this exceptional rodeo performance!
I then flew over to Colorful Colorado for the National Western Stock Show at the Denver Coliseum where I had the privilege of flying our beautiful flag for the very first time for Canada Night! Thank you so much to Cervi Championship Rodeo for lending us rodeo queens your amazing horses to run flags while we were in Denver! Although I was not able to make it to the Cowboy Downhill in Steamboat Springs due to avalanche warnings and road closures, I made amazing memories with Miss Rodeo Iowa and Miss Rodeo Wainwright as we spent 17 hours in a vehicle together! After mutton busting, visiting the state capitol, and enjoying some amazing rodeo action, I then packed my bags and made my way to the airport once again!
I landed in the Lone Star State and began my visit with an interview with Cowboy Channel to talk about my adventures and wish our Canadian athletes the best at the Fort Worth Stock Show & Rodeo. I spent most of my time at the Dallas Market Center to have amazing visits and connections with some of my sponsors. Thank you so much to Montana Silversmiths, Wrangler, Dan Post Boots and Double D, for your exceptional generosity and support of the Miss Rodeo Canada program.
I then wrapped up the month of January with a local appearance in Rimbey for their Snow Dayz event! I had so much fun partaking in the cutter parade, kid zone and making connections with individuals in the trade show.
I am so excited for what is in store for the month of February!
With my whole heart,
Miss Rodeo Canada 2024
Kaylee Shantz
