After the grand entry, after all the farewell, congratulatory and thank-you speeches, awards and anxious anticipation, the 2014 Stampede Queen and Princess were crowned in a formal ceremony held at the Elks Hall Saturday evening.
Outgoing Stampede Queen Rachel Abrahamse crowned her successor, Michelle Ball, Miss Clusko Logging Enterprises and outgoing Stampede Princess Karina Sukert crowned her successor, Matina Durfeld, Miss Minton Creek Ranch.
Contest awards for the various test categories were presented prior to the crowning with Michelle and Matina sharing the major awards.
Matina was the overall winner in horsemanship, receiving an engraved silver Montana bracelet; the practical riding winner presented with a horse breast collar; the theory exam winner presented with a blanket.
Michelle won the Queen’s Committee Award which came with the presentation of a Montana necklace and earrings.
Michelle won the public speaking, written exam, personal interview and fashion show portions of the contest which came with engraved silver Montana bracelets.
Miss Eldorado Enterprises Kyra Stuart won the Miss Congeniality award and was presented with an engraved silver Montana bracelet and a basket.
The past and present Stampede Royalty will be participating in the Stampede Parade, Stampede Rodeos and other events during Stampede this weekend along with the 10 Junior Rodeo Princess contest winners, participating for the first time this year.