The Williams Lake Stampede Queen contestants participated in the first formal portion of the Williams Lake Stampede Queen Contest Saturday evening, June 17 at the Gibraltar Room.
Unfortunately, due to unforeseen circumstances, organizers said that Brianna Wyness Miss Tim Hortons was unable to attend the event which included a western wear fashion show, the contestant’s prepared speeches, and impromptu questions.
Contestants Kaylee Billyboy Miss Gustafson’s Dodge and Tennale Sailor Miss Beaver Valley Feeds joined 2016/17 Stampede Queen Cheyenne Shoults in presenting the fashion show.
Each of the girls modeled a casual western outfit, a theme day outfit, and their favourite formal western gown.
Cheyenne said her formal dress was special to her because it was given to her by her friend Brenda Humphrey who has since passed away.
Kaylee said her dress was special to her because it was made by her mother Brigette Peel and was beaded by her grandmother Pat Peel.
Tennale said her dress was special to her because it was given to her by her grandmother Vonna Underhill who had worn it when she was younger and enjoying two-step dancing.
Between rounds of modelling Cheyenne told an amusing story about a challenging horse she ended up riding when she asked for a “hot” horse at the Omak Rodeo. She also talked about all the things she had learned about and appreciated while serving as Stampede Queen for the past year.
The contestants were each asked to answer two impromptu questions and to deliver their prepared speeches.
The contestants will compete in the horsemanship portion of the contest at the Stampede Grounds on Wednesday evening, June 21 which is open to the public. The contest also includes a personal interview with the judges.
The contestants are judged 20 percent on horsemanship, 30 percent on public speaking and personal interview; 10 per cent on a written exam on their knowledge about Williams Lake and rodeo, 10 percent on the fashion show, and 30 percent on overall personality, poise and maturity.
The Stampede Queen coronation will be held Saturday, June 24 at the Gibraltar Room.