Distinctly Montana Magazine

w w w . d i s t i n c t l y m o n t a n a . c o m 81 18:38 From there, the queens help push steers and calves from one end of the arena to the other in the timed events. is is one of my most important jobs. Queens are the only people allowed in the arena without a PRCA Card. Contestants, judges, and photogra- phers are all required to hold a card. is is why rodeo education is so important. Can you imagine if a queen got in the way and a cowboy didn't win because of her? is is his livelihood; he would never forgive not only that queen, but it would leave a foul taste in his mouth for every future queen. Yes, we wear beautiful clothing but ultimately, our job is to stay out of the way. 19:50 Have you ever heard of Mutton Bustin? It's where kids hop on sheep and ride them out of a chute made for small children and ewes? I help put on helmets and protective vests and explain to the kiddos how to ride the sheep and get them energized to have fun. ese kids have a blast and I can be found chasing after each of them. Once they do come off, I am there lifting them off the arena ground, giving them a high-five, and running them back to their parents. 20:22 Happy Trails. e rodeo has finished and the queens make the final lap with sponsor flags. 20:30 I thank my friends for bringing the horses for me to borrow. I return the horse, Tom, and remove his tack before I brush him and give him a little kiss on the nose for keeping me free from danger. 20:44 I run over to thank the rodeo guests for attending the rodeo and wish them a safe drive home. I sign autographs for young rodeo fans and take pictures with everyone that asks. My heart swells. 21:20 I walk back over to my vehicle and realize I have not eaten so I grab a protein bar out of the back of the cab. Most of the time, rodeo days are long and exhausting like this, but I wouldn't trade it for the world. 21:26 e drive back to Belt is quiet, the sky is unbelievably gorgeous and humbles me as I realize how blessed I am. I get to travel this state and meet the generous people within it. I love everything about Montana. 22:37 I go over to a friend's place to try on some clothes she is selling. Being a rodeo queen is expensive so when friends offer you a discounted price on second-hand clothing, you spring at the opportunity… regardless how late it is. We laugh and enjoy the camaraderie we have found through rodeo queening. 23:30 e cycle starts over again. I return to my hotel room to shower, organize my clothes for the next morning, hop in bed, say my prayers, and turn off the lights. I get to travel this state AND MEET THE GENEROUS PEOPLE WITHIN IT. I LOVE EVERYTHING ABOUT MONTANA. bozemanbrowbar.com | kayla@bozemanbrowbar.com | (406) 589-7475 | Book Now @ Schedulicity.com Owner & Founder - Kayla Rodalen

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