As many of you may know, Natalie Adams, the main character for my second book, Seeds of Summer, is a former Miss Rodeo Kansas. Part of my research for this book has been to stay informed about current happenings with the Miss Rodeo America pageant. I thought you might enjoy reading a news release from the 2009 pageant held in Las Vegas this past December. (Dec. 5, 2009) — The results are in and the next Miss Rodeo America has been crowned. The 2010 leading lady of professional rodeo is Kelli Jackson of Eupora, Miss. Jackson is the first Miss Rodeo Mississippi to achieve the title of Miss Rodeo America. During the next year, she will travel more than 100,000 miles representing Miss Rodeo America, Inc. and the Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association.
“I am an enthusiastic rodeo fan and spirited competitor; the sport of rodeo encompasses not only my dreams, but also my passion. As Miss Rodeo America, I will offer a welcoming glimpse of the western lifestyle and the sport of rodeo to our nation,” Jackson said.
Miss Rodeo America 2009, Maegan Ridley, of Alta Loma, Calif., will fulfill her duties at the 51st anniversary of the Wrangler National Finals Rodeo. Jackson will be introduced as the 2010 Miss Rodeo America at the 4th performance of the Wrangler National Finals Rodeo, on Sunday, Dec. 6, 2009. She will begin making appearances at rodeos across the country in January.
In a press conference following her coronation Kelli thanked her family for encouraging her to dare to dream and believing in her.
“My family provided a strong foundation and it’s all of you have taught me to fly,” Kelli said in reference to her supporters.
Aside from her rodeo interests, Jackson has a Bachelor of Arts degree in History and Political Science from Wheaton College. Her goal is to obtain a Master’s Degree in Public Policy with an Agricultural Development Focus from Duke University. Jackson will be able to put to good use, the $10,000 educational scholarship she will receive at the completion of her reign.
Jackson was also awarded a wardrobe of Wrangler Jeans, Justin Boots, Bailey Hats, fully tooled Court’s Saddle with custom Miss Rodeo America conchos and an official Miss Rodeo America trophy buckle from Montana Silversmiths. Accompanying the perpetual Miss Rodeo America tiara made by Landstrom’s Original Black Hills Gold Creations she was given a wardrobe of matching jewelry. These items, along with a multitude of other valuable and exquisite prizes will be presented to her throughout the year.
Contestants were judged in the major categories of horsemanship, personality, and appearance, competing in the areas of public speaking, personal interviews, modeling, photogenic and rodeo/equine knowledge. Contestants were eligible for nearly $40,000 in scholarships at the 2010 Miss Rodeo America Pageant. In addition to the $10,000 Miss Rodeo America scholarship, Jackson also received an additional $3,500 in scholarships for winning the speech award, personality category and appearance category.
Jackson is looking forward to seeing all aspects of rodeo while traveling across the country as Miss Rodeo America 2010. “I’m looking forward to promoting professional rodeo and the Miss Rodeo America organization in its entirety from coast to coast,” she said.
To learn more about Miss Rodeo America, please visit their website.
