Starting the year off with a trip to Denver was a great idea! The weather was perfect, the people were amazing, and the rodeos were exciting!
I arrived at the airport and was taken to the Courtyard Marriott, where I stayed the whole time I was there, by a very sweet man named Jerry Maddock who volunteers for the National Western. Then it was off to the Stock Show, where I had the privilege of appearing at the rodeo in many different capacities, from Arena Introductions and helping Mutton Busters to Running Event and Sponsor Flags. Mr. Jim Houston, the 1964 World Champion Bareback Rider, graciously prepared the horses and made sure that they were in top form.
Another appearance that we the State Queens made while in Denver, was to the State Capitol to be introduced during the Legislative Session. I met many wonderful people and must say that Colorado has some very strong leadership. Representative McKinley generously gave us all a copy of his CD, quite the western artist! We then toured the amazing capitol and visited with FFA members who also appeared before the House.
One of the highlights of my stay involved John Cavey and Pat Thompson. They are the best people that you will ever meet. They kept all of us Queens fed, no small feat! and introduced us to many Colorado natives and rodeo supporters. It was great spending time with them and visiting.
Sadly my stay came to an end and Jerry Cour of the National Western took me back to the airport, where I prayed for good weather and said my goodbyes.
This appearance provided me the opportunity to meet my fellow State Rodeo Queens and get to know them better. They are all amazing and it is going to be a wonderful year traveling with them.