After a long night of rodeoing, it was great to wake up and go to the Pioneer Women's Breakfast. I loved hearing the sweet stories these women recalled from their past. My own pioneer heritage is very dear to my heart, so it was wonderful hearing these women talk about theirs.  Then, we visited the Clovis Chamber of Commerce, which is the location of the Normon Petty Recording Studios, where Buddy Holly, along with many other old favorites, got his start.
We also took part in the Miss Rodeo New Mexico Pageant Coronation. Our dance to the Black Eyed Peas “Boom Boom Pow” stunned dazzled the crowd. Throughout the pageant, each of the contestants did a wonderful job and Kelly Horton, the Miss Rodeo New Mexico Elect will be able to claim her crown in January.
Saturday was the parade. Each visiting queen got a whole new gorgeous Dodge Ram Truck to herself, sponsored by Bender Dodge.

That afternoon, we had an autograph signing at Joes Boot Shop. They are a great sponsor of the rodeo. After, they let us take their car for a spin. Her name is Betsy- a 1975 Cadillac limo with steer horns on the front and a cowhide interior. I can't forget the one-horse horse trailer that we were hauling. The car has a PA system, perfect for getting information out about the rodeo that night as we cruised through what was known as ‘downtown'. Once the public was sufficiently informed, we could switch the system to make chicken, cow, or horse noises, which we did… multiple times. They were the perfect noises to serenade our Chinese fire drills that we performed (as safely as possible) at every red light.

The Pioneer Days Rodeo was a great way to end each night. The crowds were happy to witness the preservation of their western lifestyle, with some of the top cowboys making some top times. The wild cow milking was a favorite.
Rodeo is a sport that supports other worthwhile causes; while simultaneously supporting the preservation of our western heritage. The first night was Patriotic night; which kept our hearts and minds focused on the sacrifices made by our troops overseas. The next night was Tough Enough to Wear Pink night, which works to provide additional awareness and fundraising to assuage the devastation caused by breast cancer.

After my last rodeo in Clovis, I packed up my suitcases (it is incredible that I was able to fit the entire trip's wardrobe into two just two suitcases) and at 1:30 am I jumped in the shuttle that would take me back to Lubbock, where I would then fly to Dallas, then back to Phoenix, and then drive to Prescott for the Prescott Rodeo Pageant.
I was certainly glad I made it back in time to see the competition for the titles to represent our state's oldest rodeo. I was impressed by the great preparation of the Rodeo Royalty committee and each of the contestants' performances. The end of the night found my dear friends, Rebecca Johnson crowned Prescott Junior Court, and Chantel Miles crowned the 2010 Prescott Rodeo Queen!

It will be a honor getting to ride with these girls and the other great Rodeo Royalty at the different Arizona rodeos.
I just Love Arizona and her wonderful people!

I'll look forward to seeing you on the Arizona Trail! 

Taryn Brady
Miss Rodeo Arizona 2009

May 2009
From the Pen of Taryn Brady(MRAz 2009)

Howdy folks, I am Taryn Brady, your 2009 Miss Rodeo Arizona . On April 4th I was elated to be named the Lady in Waiting, and for the rest of the month I was chompin' at the bit, anxious to get started serving wonderful Arizona and her rich rodeo lifestyle.

I would like to send a "yeehaw" out to the Cowgirls Historical Foundation for sponsoring me to run in the pageant. I would also like to thank all those who have supported me throughout my quest to become Miss Rodeo Arizona . I could not have made it without the great coaches behind the scenes, my sisters for their inspiring examples and critiquing, my wonderful dad, and the brains behind the operation, my dear mother. The 2009 Pageant celebrated our “Everyday Super Heroes” and one of the Super Heroes for me ending up being my friend and companion, my horse Cleo. (She helped me win Horsemanship and she got extra treats for her efforts).

The Pageant was a grueling blast. It was wonderful getting to know each of the contestants; the beautiful Destiny Vaught from Benson, the talented Laura Winstanley from Kingman, and the intelligent April Mendenhall from Hereford . I am honored to have competed with them. There were many favorite parts of the pageant, but one that comes to mind was the informal night, when we got to do our introduction speeches and answer impromptu questions. The highlight of the evening, was when we each flawlessly (this may or may not be an exaggeration) executed a superhero dance, choreographed by the creative Kate Cox (MRAz 2001). Everyone in attendance appreciated our dancing skills; and especially those of Casey Rose – Miss Rodeo Arizona 2008 -- I have some boot-scootin' boots to fill!

Another fun experience was when we got to be in the Fiesta Days parade and ride in the Fiesta Days Rodeo. It was the rodeo's 31st year, and it was wonderful to see the western heritage of Cave Creek alive and well. There are so many components to putting on an event as nice as the Miss Rodeo Arizona Pageant. Many people's efforts combined to make a classy and productive occasion. The Bison Museum was an educational and fun venue. The Fiesta Days Rodeo was a great host rodeo. I am so grateful for all the board members and volunteers of the pageant, and for those behind the coronation May 9th.

"Get Ready to Ride" and come join the Miss Rodeo Arizona herd as we roundup more fun and tradition at the 2009 MRAz Coronation! The Coronation Banquet will be held May 9th in Gilbert at Agritopia. For more information, please visit our website at www.missrodeoarizona.info!