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Miss Rodeo Airdrie looks back at "unforgettable" year

It is hard to believe it has almost been a year since Melinda and I were crowned the 2010 Airdrie Rodeo Royalty. We have had an unforgettable year representing the City of Airdrie and the pro rodeo.
Miss Rodeo Airdrie 2010 Alicia Kuipers and 2010 Princess Melinda Carmichael will pass their crowns on to two of this year’s rodeo royalty contestants, July 2.
Miss Rodeo Airdrie 2010 Alicia Kuipers and 2010 Princess Melinda Carmichael will pass their crowns on to two of this year’s rodeo royalty contestants, July 2.

It is hard to believe it has almost been a year since Melinda and I were crowned the 2010 Airdrie Rodeo Royalty.

We have had an unforgettable year representing the City of Airdrie and the pro rodeo. We were thrown into the royalty life at full speed when we attended numerous events during the Calgary Stampede, one of the highlights being the Stampede Parade.

Throughout the summer we were able to attend a number of rodeos, barbecues, pancake breakfasts, and even a cowboy vs. firefighter pole climb. We soon realized what a busy but rewarding experience this would be. We travelled to Edmonton on two occasions throughout the year, once for the Canadian Finals Rodeo and again for the Alberta Association of Agricultural Societies Convention. Both were amazing experiences.

In April, I was able to spend the weekend at the Airdrie Home and Garden Fair. I had a wonderful weekend meeting so many of you and informing everyone about the rodeo. It was amazing to see how big this event is.

This past month, I was able to help out at the Balzac Beef 4-H club’s achievement day, and Melinda and I both got to cheer everyone on at 4-H on Parade the following weekend. We were even able to take part in a tug of war competition and sadly lost to the very strong 4-H members we took on. As a former 4-H member, I know what a difference the program makes in the lives of these kids, and it was great to be a part of that again.

Before passing on our crowns, we will be making appearances at the Sundre Pro Rodeo on June 25 followed by the High River Pro Rodeo June 26.

As Miss Rodeo Airdrie 2010, I would like to thank everyone in the community who has welcomed us, encouraged us, and even just offered up a hello as we pass by. You all have made this year unforgettable.

As our year comes to an end, we make way for the next set of royalty. We are fortunate to have four truly wonderful contestants in our Miss Rodeo Airdrie 2011 pageant. Kelsey Reinboldt-Lynch is a Calgary resident who believes in teaching young people about the importance of rodeo. Rebecca McKay was raised in Airdrie but currently resides in Calgary, and considers the Airdrie Pro Rodeo her favourite. Gillian Sheilds lives west of Didsbury and had her first rodeo experience in the Mutton Bustin’ event at the 1996 Airdrie Rodeo. Shannon Black is a Calgarian who has special ties to Airdrie as she participated in 4-H in our city.

All four contestants have done an amazing job so far at their events, which have included photo shoots, horsemanship and public speaking contests.

Melinda and I were also able to join the contestants at the fifth annual Empty Bowls Festival at Nose Creek Park on June 11, which was a great opportunity to meet people and have some fun interacting with the children.

While I am sad to be giving up my crown shortly, I am so excited to see two of these lovely ladies take our place on July 2. I know they will do a great job.

Thank you all for supporting us throughout the year. We hope to see you all at the 2011 Airdrie Pro Rodeo which runs from June 28 to July 2.


Airdrie Today Staff

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