A COMPREHENSIVE
GUIDE FOR FUTURE
MISS RODEO’S
ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.
COPYRIGHT ©2000 BY MISS RODEO AMERICA, INC.
CONTESTANT COMPETITION GUIDELINES
by Cindy Schonholtz
Introduction
The information contained in this section is taken from a study guide compiled by state
delegates to assist contestants in preparing for the Miss Rodeo America Pageant. We did however,
prepare this information in a way that we hoped would be helpful to contestants at all different levels of
rodeo queen competition. We have put together this portion of the information in an effort to assist
pageant directors at all levels educate pageant contestants. The information is based our experiences as
contestant, judge, and pageant director and is intended as guidelines only.
When preparing for a Miss Rodeo competition, contestants must first learn that they are
preparing themselves for a judged competition, and it is only a person’s opinion of them during that
competition. In compiling this information, I hoped to give contestants many of the tips and hints that I
thought would assist them, but in the end it is the judges of a particular competition who decide the
outcome. In my opinion, pageant directors at every level should prepare contestants for the pageant in
a way that will help them grow as a person, no matter the outcome.
One of the keys to a successful pageant is the preparation of contestants. The information
contained in this section should assist contestants on every level in their preparation for Miss Rodeo
competitions. In addition to the basic guidelines contained in this section, contestants should have a
vast knowledge of the sport of rodeo and horse science. The amount of information a pageant director
wants to provide contestants must be made on an individual basis. For instance, a local rodeo pageant
may want contestants to know quite a bit about the local rodeo, which they are competing to represent
and promote. This information should be provided to contestants along with at the very least,
guidelines on the extent of the rodeo knowledge portion of the competition. Contestants on every level
should be provided humane information from the PRCA in order to educate them and others on this
very important topic.
It is suggested that pageant directors provide the judges of the pageant with the same
information that they provide to the contestants. This will assist the judges in preparing questions and
give the judges a better knowledge of contestant’s preparation.
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APPLICATIONS
The biggest mistake a contestant can make is believing that the competition begins when she arrives at
the pageant. The competition begins when a contestants submits her application and other information to the
pageant director. These documents along with your photo create the all-important first impression. Long
before you meet the pageant director or judges they will see your application and begin to associate it with you,
for the judges the application can be very important decision-making factor. An application can many times be
the difference between winning or loosing the competition.
APPLICATION GUIDELINES:
1. The application and other documents must be neatly TYPED. Never submit an un-typed application. If
you must, borrow a typewriter from school or church.
2. When you first receive the application, make copies of it to practice and tune up what you want it to say
before typing the final draft. Making extra copies will also prevent you from submitting a messy
application with white out.
3. Have someone else proof the application for errors. You may not always catch them.
4. Make sure that you tell the truth fully on your application.
5. Make a copy of the final application you submit and study it so if judges ask you questions; you will be
familiar with the information you submitted. Also make sure that you filled out the application, not your
mother or anyone else. You must believe in what this application says and be the person described.
6. When stating facts and background, do not use informal or cute language. Think of this as a job
application and fill it out as such.
7. Do not use nicknames!
8. State your accomplishments, but don’t brag or drag on about everything since grammar school. The
most important accomplishments are leadership, speaking, scholastic, and horse show and rodeo awards.
These will let the judges know you have the qualities needed to represent rodeo.
Too many things will get boring to read for judges and they may miss something important. Stick to the
basics.
Remember, a neatly filled out application with impressive grammar, goals and achievements will put you
one step further toward your goal of earning the queen title you seek.
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PHOTOS
The importance of submitting a flattering photo with an application cannot be overstated. Beside the
fact that most times this photo will be used for photogenic judging, it is also the 1st impression the pageant
director and the judges will get of a contestant. So it is very important that the photos submitted look like you,
let a little of your personality show, and look “RODEO.”
There are many wonderful glamour photo studios now that will do your makeup (a very important part
of a good picture), do your hair, and have available clothes for you to wear, although you will have to bring
your own hat. Most of the glamour photo places have leather jackets available that make excellent photo
choices if you don’t have your wardrobe ready in time for photos. Even though these places will do your hair
for you if you like, you may choose to do your hair on your own to get the exact look you want. If not, bring a
Miss Rodeo America Program and show them some of the photos to let them get an idea of the hairstyles for
rodeo queen pictures. Also pay close attention to the makeup artists as they make your face up to get great hints
and don’t be afraid to ask questions along the way. Don’t panic if you think they have put to much makeup on,
they know what will look great in a photo. You probably won’t want to wear that heavy makeup for the entire
competition, but the makeup they put on will be very close to what would look good in an evening stage
competition.
PHOTO GUIDELINES:
1. If wearing a black hat, choose a light back ground and vice versa. This will keep your hat from fading
into the background.
2. Make sure your hat is well shaped to your face and clean!
3. Do not wear any low-cut shirts or anything that may be inappropriate. Remember the look a rodeo
queen wants to achieve, the “All American girl.”
4. Look western. Western shirt and leather jackets – Simple is Elegance. The trend in today’s rodeo queen
competitions is back to western basics.
5. Portray a little of your personality in the photo. Try to look relaxed and confident.
6. Stay away from distracting accessories and clothing. Sequins and busy metallic shirts distract from
YOU, which is what you want the judge to see, not your clothes or large earrings!
7. A smile should show teeth, but no gums.
8. Remember to check the rules in the competition you are competing in and follow them. If you have
questions, contact the pageant director.
9. Head and shoulders photos are always your best bet unless otherwise stated in the rules.
10. If submitting more than one photo, ask the pageant director if they must be more than one pose and what
they will be used for. At the Miss Rodeo America Pageants, a color photo is submitted for photogenic
judging, with black and whites for publicity. You can get all of your photos taken in color and take the
photo to a lab to have it converted. Make sure that this is permissible; ask the photo studio first, so you
won’t have problems with copyrights.
11. Never let a photographer talk you into pushing your hat up or back on your head. It should sit about 1
inch to two fingers above your eyebrows, leave it there. A good photographer will be able to light
correctly with a hat on. It is easier for them with a white hat.
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PERSONAL INTERVIEW
Introduction
The personal interview portion is the portion of the pageant that enables the judges to evaluate a
contestant in a one on one situation. The interview allows the judges to get to see the contestants personality
and ability to converse and judge contestants on how they feel they will handle these situations with rodeo fans,
sponsors, and others they may come into contact should they win the title. The judges will look for the
contestant who is sincere, confident, intelligent, and prepared.
Here are a few questions judges may ask after they interview a contestant:
 Can the contestant engage in polite conversation?
 Can the contestant put others at ease in a conversation?
 Is the contestant confident with herself and comfortable?
 Is the contestant pleasant and likable, no matter the situation?
 Can the contestant handle controversial subjects with grace and sensitivity?
 Is the contestant prepared to talk about issues involving her community, state and the nation?
 Is the contestant prepared to discuss rodeo, it’s history, events, rules, and issues with anyone?
 Has the contestant kept up to date on the humane issues of rodeo and is she able to handle these
intelligently?
 Is the contestant’s appearance pleasant, not overbearing, and has she prepared and polished herself to
look her best?
 Does the contestant have clear-cut goals for her life?
 Does the contestant have good manners?
 Does the contestant have compassion and interest in others?
 Does the contestant have a sense of humor?
 Does the contestant listen to the questions?
 Does the contestant seemed relaxed and is she smiling?
When preparing for an interview, a contestant must put herself in the judges’ shoes and ask herself, if I were
judging-- What would I look for? One of the most important things a contestant can do is properly prepare
herself in order to go into an interview with confidence. This confidence will come from knowing that you
have done your best and utilized all tools available to you to prepare. Even with the best preparation,
contestants won’t always have all of the answers, but if a contestant has the knowledge that she has done her
best to prepare, she will be able to handle not knowing everything with comfortably and put the judges at ease
with what she does know. With preparation and the confidence that comes with it, the interview can be a tool
for a contestant to use to let the judges know that she is the contestant who has prepared and is ready to promote
the sport of rodeo to the public.
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Successful Interview Technique
1. Know as much as possible about the judges.
2. Before entering the room, take a deep breath and smile. Walk into the room with erect posture and
briefly establish eye contact with each judge.
3. Acknowledge the judges by name when entering the room, if you haven’t been formally introduced,
introduce yourself. Be as relaxed as possible, but never overly casual.
4. When sitting down, look where you are sitting, and never sit all the way back in the chair. If a person is
bringing you into the room and introducing you to the judges, don’t take your seat until that person
completes the introduction.
5. Put your feet together, flat on the floor, and straighten your back. Do not cross your legs. With your
ankles together, position your legs to the left or right.
6. Put your hands in your lap, with palms upward, one cradling the other. This position, you will be able to
gesture easily and look calm.
7. Be definite with your answers, answer with a complete sentence without rambling. Never a one word
answer or yes or know. If you don’t know the answer, be honest and move on with the interview.
8. Don’t wear too much perfume.
9. Always be positive, be upbeat with your answers.
10. When dealing with controversial issues, never try to put your personal opinions off on the judges. You
can sidestep strong opinions by being knowledgeable and talk about the facts surrounding the issue,
while not stating a strong opinion. The judges are looking for the contestant to be able to handle these
issues without offending anyone. Never inject religious beliefs.
11. Your appearance should be as perfect as possible for this close up contact with the judges. Your
makeup should be more subdued than anytime in the pageant. Clothing should be more subdued also to
allow the judges to concentrate on you. Look at the appearance section of this book for makeup and
clothing guidelines. Make sure the outfit is comfortable and is a reflection of your personality.
12. While displaying confidence in your answers, yourself, and your goals in life, don’t take this to far by
being aggressive. Confidence is attractive--aggression is a turn off. Express your goals with pride but
don’t brag on accomplishment and display humility when it is called for. The judges know your
accomplishments from your application.
13. Don’t let the judges conduct a question - answer session, become involved and converse with them. Let
them get to know the real you, and that you have the desire and what is takes to hold the title that you
are competing for!
14. When leaving the room, thank the judges sincerely and make eye contact one more time before exiting
the room.
Interview Preparation
1. The first thing that you need to do when preparing for and interview is to establish why you want to earn
the title you are competing for. You need to be able to communicate to the judges what you hope to do if
you win the title.
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2. Prepare yourself to communicate to the judges what you hope to do in your life in regards to your
education, career and family. What will you do to achieve these goals? Goals should include short and
long term goals.
3. Study in depth the sport of rodeo. Know the champions, the events, judging, PRCA history, National
Finals statistics and history. Don’t overlook the WPRA when learning rodeo information. Especially
focus on the sponsors of professional rodeo, it is very important to have a working knowledge of major
sponsors of professional rodeo. The best education in the sport of rodeo is attending and watching on
television as many rodeos as possible, take notes and listen closely to the announcers and take notes.
Keep up with current issues in rodeo by reading the Pro Rodeo Sports News.
4. Gather all of the knowledge you can concerning the humane issues in the sport of professional rodeo
today. Study the humane columns in the Pro Rodeo Sports News, study information put out by the
PRCA, and join the Friends of Rodeo and read their newsletters.
5. Know current events. Read your local paper, the USA Today, and news magazines. Watch the news on
television and have discussions with family and friends regarding issues facing the country, state, and
your community.
6. Have a vast knowledge of horses and horse science. Judges will be looking for a contestant to have
working knowledge of feeding, care, shoeing, trailering, and handling horses in all situations. Know
about illnesses, treatment, vaccinations, worming, and about tack and equipment. Know the parts of a
horse and saddle and about your horse if you will be using it in the competition.
7. Have mock interviews with teachers, vets, fellow contestants, horse trainers, family and friends. This
will allow you the opportunity to practice answering questions and allow you to have more confidence
in the actual judges interview.
8. Keep up with the trends in the western wear industry. Read magazines such as Western Styles, Western
Horseman and other western magazines.
9. Know about the pageant or rodeo that you are competing to represent. Especially if you are running for a
local title, know all about the rodeo. Know it’s sponsors, dates, history, stock contractor, committee
member, and if it benefits a charity.
10. Have yourself videoed answering questions to see how you appear when talking.
THE KEY TO A SUCCESSFUL INTERVIEW IS PROPER PREPARATION!
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MODELING
The goal of every contestant who models is to look comfortable, graceful, and attractive while
competing in the modeling portion of the competition. Western modeling is a bit different from modeling on
the runway or other high fashion modeling, it should be kept simple. The most important part of modeling is
your smile. Lots of practice will give you the confidence to model with a relaxed smile on your face.
MODELING TIPS:
 When standing in one place, keep your weight on your back leg. Keep the front leg relaxed at the knee.
Never stand straight on, turn your body a little, it is a much more flattering position. (3/4 Stance)
 To pivot, turn to your left if you right leg is forward, and vice versa.
 Lead off with the front foot when you start walking from a standing position.
 Always look where you are going so that you know where to head and don’t get caught in a corner or
walk right off the stage.
 When walking up or down stairs, do so with your body turned at an angle to the stairs. Don’t walk
facing straight ahead. You should face your body slightly to the crowd.
 POSTURE, POSTURE, POSTURE. Chin up, shoulders back.
 Walk lightly more on the balls of your feet, don’t clomp or drag your heels.
 Make sure and look in each direction when modeling and look the judges in the eye from time to time.
 When stopping to strike a pose, count to five and look out at the crowd and judges.
 When pivoting, look at the crowd and judges over your shoulder and then bring your head around while
finishing the turn.
 When standing still, keep your hands in a comfortable position at your sides.
 If you have a tendency to fidget, hold your hands behind your back.
 Don’t exit the stage without a last pose and look at the judges.
 Take your time; don’t walk to fast or too slow, but a comfortable pace.
 Practice at home in front of family and the mirror.
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IMPROMPTU QUESTION COMPETITION
The impromptu question competition is a very important part of the rodeo queen competition in that is
closely mirrors what the young lady who wins will have to do a lot of the time. A titleholder will spend many
hours talking with people and giving short impromptu speeches for audiences of all types. The purpose of the
impromptu question competition is to judge the contestants on how they think on their feet and how they will
react to the publics question when they are out representing rodeo.
IMPROMPTU QUESTIONS COMPETITION GUIDELINES:
1. Always start your answer by repeating the question. This will give those who didn’t hear the question
an idea of what you are talking about as well as give you an extra second to formulate your answer.
2. Listen carefully to the question, if you do not understand have the emcee repeat it for you.
3. Practice, Practice, Practice. There are many good sample questions following this, use these and have
your family and friends constantly make up new ones dealing with new current issues being talked about
at the time.
4. If you are well practice and studied, you will have the confidence to answer to the best of your ability,
not freeze up.
5. Do not rush off the stage after answering the question, hand the microphone back and look at the judges
with a confident look and smile, no matter the outcome. They are looking for someone who can keep
her composure, no matter if she knows the answer or not.
6. If you don’t know the answer or anything about the topic, just say so. However, impromptu questions
are usually of the variety that you should know something about the issue or topic, say what you do
know.
7. Don’t ramble on, you will dig yourself a hole. Say a concise clear answer and end it. If you happen to
know a great deal about the subject, you may elaborate more, but your best bet is to say what
immediately comes to mind and go onto the next question if there are more.
8. Be careful not to give strong opinions that may offend others. Strong religious and political beliefs
should be kept to conversation with friends and acquaintances. A titleholder will be required to have
discussions with many types of people without offending. So learn to sit on the fence without being
wishy-washy. Certain things such as humane issues, education, are safe topics to voice your opinions.
9. Always be positive. Never answer question in a negative manner. There is something positive about
every situation and issue and it is a good way to start thinking.
10. Be confident in your answer and look the judges in the eye afterward. Never answer with a question as
if you are not sure. Even if you are not sure, answer with confidence as if you believe in your answer or
don’t answer at all.
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SPEECH COMPETITION
The speech competition shows the judges how well a contestant can communicate to an audience,
prepare herself for a speech, and let her personality show. Another thing that comes out in this part of the
competition is how committed a contestant is to winning the title, a contestant with less commitment will not
put in the long hours of writing and practicing a speech and this will show in this portion of the competition.
SPEECH GUIDELINES:
1. Know the topic. If you have questions and are concerned about what is expected, ask the pageant
director.
2. Stay on the topic. If it is a question, the judges will be looking for you to answer that question in your
speech, don’t stray to something you would rather talk about.
3. Depending on the situation, it is usually fine to have someone else help you write your speech, but stay
away from having someone write the speech and give it to you with no input from you. You will not
believe in it, as much and it will show in your delivery.
4. Practice, Practice, Practice. You cannot practice your speech too much. You have no idea how nervous
you are going to be and how much you need to have your speech memorized backwards and forwards.
5. Practice pickup up in the middle and at different parts of your speech in case you get flustered or
distracted, this will help you be more prepared for the situation.
6. Get input from others. A speech coach or someone who is practiced in public speaking can help you
with change of tone in your voice and hand and arm gestures.
7. Practice the changes in tone; nothing is worse than a speech given in a monotone voice.
8. Keep hand gestures to a minimum. They are nice to have, but too many are distracting.
9. Choose your outfit to be fitted and not distracting. Excess fringe on your arms is distracting when you
move them.
10. Don’t move around too much. Some contestants are comfortable with a little walking while speaking
and if this makes you more comfortable, fine. But the best approach is to stand relatively still while
looking across the audience from time to time to talk to the entire audience and to connect with people,
especially the judges.
11. This is a wonderful opportunity for you to let your inner light and personality shine through. Write your
speech to reflect your personality and practice it so you will be able to shine.
12. Most of all, smile, smile, and smile. Practice it while smiling. Judges will be looking for a contestant
who is confident speaking in front of a crowd.
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HORSEMANSHIP
Introduction
Horsemanship is a very vital element in any rodeo queen pageant and it is the category judged that what
distinguishes rodeo queen pageants from other pageants. Not only must a Miss Rodeo be able to speak, model,
and present herself to the judges in stage competition, but she must also demonstrate to the judges that she has
the horsemanship ability to represent the sport of professional rodeo in the rodeo arena with thousands of people
watching. Rodeo appearances may be the only time many people are exposed to a rodeo queen. And even
though it may only be a matter of seconds during an introduction run, judges in a pageant need to feel that the
contestant displays the ability to handle herself and the horse she is riding in a rodeo grand entry and
introduction. Many contestants believe that because they have ridden all of their life in horse shows, rodeo, etc.
that they are ready for the horsemanship competition. Many of these contestants will leave a pageant
disappointed because they were unable to successfully compete in the horsemanship portion of the competition.
Rodeo queen competitions are very unique. Contestants who have no prior rodeo queen pageant
experience may find them difficult. Unlike horse show and rodeo competition, the judges are focusing on the
CONTESTANT, not the horse, the tack, or the time. Not only do judges want contestants to show them
excellent riding skills and a smooth pattern, but they also want the contestants to look great doing it. In addition
to this different point of view contestants must face, they also encounter a new pressure this is a once a year
competition, and in the case of Miss Rodeo America, once in a lifetime. Unlike horseshows and rodeos, there
won't be another queen pageant next weekend. Many contestants aren’t prepared for this type of pressure.
The most important thing a contestant can do when preparing for the horsemanship portion of a rodeo
queen competition, is to find a qualified instructor or trainer and spend a lot of hours perfecting their
horsemanship skills. This instructor needs to have a background and knowledge of competing in reining horse
competition, because reining patterns are used in the majority of rodeo queen competitions. Although there are
many differences in the judging of local pageants, the majority tries to convince judges to concentrate on the
riding ability of the contestant, not the ability of the horse. However, even if a rodeo queen competition does
have a more horse show type horsemanship competition, it is very important for contestants to have a extensive
knowledge of the proper cues needed to perform reining patterns. Even if you don’t have a horse that will slide
stop, spin or do perfect rollbacks, you will impress the judges if you display that you know the proper technique
in cueing your horse. At the Miss Rodeo America Pageant, the horses are supplied for the contestants and they
are not reining horses. In these competitions, contestants are judged on their riding ability only and their ability
to handle the situation that they are put in on the horse they have drawn. That is where the word rodeo comes
into play in these competitions; contestants have to be prepared to handle any horse they may draw. Drawing a
bad horse can turn into an advantage if you have the poise and the skills to get everything possible out of that
animal and keep your composure.
Your best ammunition going into any rodeo queen competition is to have the knowledge of proper cues
needed to perform the patterns. This means spending many hours with an instructor or trainer until you can
perform the pattern or patterns perfectly on any number of different horses under many different circumstances.
The contestant who displays the confidence of knowing the patterns, is comfortable with the cues needed, and
has spent hours in the saddle will come out ahead in the horsemanship. She will be able to display to the judges
her ability and be ready to tackle the rest of the competition with confidence.
Basic Skills and Techniques
What the judges will be looking for are contestants who are able to control their horses, and cue their
horses properly with use of hands, feet, and seat. The overall goal is a smooth pattern where the contestant
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confidently displays her ability to control and cue her horse properly and handle any situation that may arise
with poise and skill. The importance of a smile while performing horsemanship patterns is often overlooked.
Contestants should practice horsemanship with a pleasant look and a smile. Judges will be looking for a
contestant who is comfortable on a horse and enjoys riding, this must reflect in your expression and in your
actions.
BASIC SKILLS:
1. Seat - the rider with the best seat will be the rider who looks most comfortable while performing her
pattern. Judges will be looking for contestants to have a seat that is in the saddle and stays with the
rhythm of the horse displaying balance and timing.
2. Legs - one of a rider’s most important tools in cueing a horse while performing a pattern. Judges will be
looking for the contestants to use leg pressure, not kicks to cue her horse for rollbacks, spins and even,
balanced circles. Judges will also be looking for a contestant to have weight in her stirrups and keep her
feet in the proper position at all times. Overall, the shoulders, knees and feet should be aligned for
proper balance and contestants should especially work on the bad habit many riders get of pointing toes
down while stopping or cueing their horses. This habit displays that the rider does not have the proper
weight in her stirrups and is not balanced therefore not ready to handle any situation that will come her
way. The ball of your foot should be in the stirrup with the toe pointed ahead as much as it comfortable.
3. Hands - riders should practice displaying quiet hands. They should only be used in conjunction with
other cues for an end result. Make sure that you judge the tightness of reins you will need and don’t
choke up to much on a horse causing the horse to fight you. Also, too much length in your reins will
cause your hands to be in the wrong position when cueing for a stop. Hands should be used only with a
minimum of motion in arms and shoulders, quiet hands help make a quiet horse and a smooth pattern.
Make sure that your elbows stay close to your body and not moving. Reins should be held in the left
hand above and in front of the saddle horn.
4. Head - contestants must employ every tool available to her to utilize the horse. The importance of using
your head, literally, is underplayed, but should be remembered. When executing a circle, always look
where you are going, and not only will you know where you are headed, but this in conjunction with
your leg and hand cues will help execute a smooth even circle. When doing rollbacks and turns, always
turn your head just before turning, this begin the turning process and your whole body will be cueing
your horse to turn or rollback and the end result will be a smoother executed turn or rollback.
The rider who employs all of these cues will be one who does more that ride the horse, but actually works
with the horse to come out with a positive end result. These cues are not easy to learn and are not easy to
remember in a pressure situation, but with lots of work and the use of video, they can be learned and the
contestant who learns them will be way ahead of the game. These cues will even the field when horses are
supplied and give the rider confidence no matter what horse they have to ride in competition.
The Pattern
1. Make sure the stirrups are adjusted correctly before beginning the pattern. When standing in the saddle,
you should be able to get 3 fingers between you and the saddle.
2. Check the tack on the horse before mounting:
 Tightness of chinstrap.
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 Tightness of cinch. If using a horse supplied to you, check with a committee person or the horse
owner before tightening the cinch.
 Reins securely fastened.
 Position of saddle.
3. Mounting:
 Stand near to the horse facing the horse’s head with the reins in the left hand.
 Place foot in stirrup and grasp the saddle horn with the right hand while maintaining a hold on
the reins with the left hand. Swing your leg over the horse gracefully.
 If the horse moves, check him immediately.
4. Turns. To turn the horse, rein slightly and put your outside pressure, the horse will move away from the
pressure. Make sure your inside leg is away from the horse as to not confuse the horse. Rotate your
weight & shift your hips into the turn while turning your upper body into the turn and looking in the
direction you wish to go.
5. Figure 8’s. The key to a successful figure eight is even, smooth circles. To cue a horse to a smooth
circle, use inside leg pressure and gentle rein pressure by moving the rein horizontally across the horn.
Maintain inside leg pressure evenly. Make sure to watch where you are going and look in the direction
of the circle. Keep your weight centered. When a pattern calls for a slower, smaller circle and a larger,
faster circle, make sure that there is a marked difference in speed and size.
6. Lead Changes. When changing leads, take the horse a little straighter than if you were to finish the
circle. Use the outside leg to cue the lead change while using your reins to cue the direction change. A
subtle shift of the weight without leaning will further cue the horse. Make sure you have adequate speed
in your circle to help encourage the change. Judges differ in how they would like contestants to react if
the horse does not change properly. The best way to decide this for the contestant to do what she feels
that she is best at doing to correct the horse. Some judges will prefer you break the horse down to a trot
to correct and some will prefer you try to speed the horse up. If given the opportunity to discuss the
pattern with the judge, you may ask them which they would prefer. In either case, try to correct it twice,
so that the judges realize that you know the horse is on the wrong lead, and if the horse still hasn’t
corrected, go on with the pattern.
7. Stops. Stops will make or break you pattern. Your goal is a smooth stop where the horse is stopping on
his hind end. To properly cue a horse to stop, tuck your hips under you and sit back on them without
leaning while gently pulling back on the reins. Do not lean back. Make sure your weight is in the
stirrups and your legs are not in the horses sides keep toes straight ahead, keep your heels down.
8. Rollbacks. Always remember that a rollback is a continuous motion. It is the combination of a stop and a
pivot without pause. Combine the sliding stop and turning cues to make the horse rollback.
Always remember: watch where you are going, use your legs more that your hands, keep your weight in
stirrups, heels down, elbows in, back straight, keep a deep seat, never lean, and sit centered.
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GENERAL APPEARANCE GUIDELINES
The most important part of appearance is the contestant beneath the leather and sequins. The first thing
you need to do towards your appearance is beginning with your health. If you are not healthy and in shape, all
of the leather, beads, and sequins won’t make your skin glow and hair shine. Judges will be looking for a young
lady who is in shape, healthy and comfortable with herself. Although rodeo queen pageants are not judged the
same as beauty pageants, judges will be looking for someone who is willing to make the commitment to make
herself physically attractive. This means working out, taking vitamins, eating healthy, getting enough sleep and
losing any extra weight. A contestant who has a few extra pounds will not look good in her clothes and won’t
look as attractive on a horse as a trim contestant. Pageants are a very big commitment, along with riding,
studying and preparing a wardrobe; you need to make a commitment to make yourself as attractive as possible.
If you do have a few pounds to lose, lose it sensibly and begin far enough in advance of the pageant to avoid
losing it the wrong way by fasting, which will drain your body and tire you out. A sensible low fat diet and
exercise should help most contestants slim down.
After you have gotten yourself physically where you need to be, you need to work on the mental you.
The contestant who has her life organized and is happy with herself and her life will shine for the judges.
Practice smiling on your face and in your heart and saying thank you in every facet of your life and you will
find yourself reaping the rewards and being a happier person. Think of your job in life is to tend to your own
growth as a person, display grace, integrity, and humility in all situations. Remember to thank everyone who
helps you along the way, this will form a smile in your heart and make you SHINE as a person and the judges
will pick up on this quality in you!
Makeup and Skin Care
Makeup is a very important tool is allowing you to display your inner beauty and bring out your best
features. Once again, without proper makeup that lasts, expensive clothes will not help you out. The best
advice to help with makeup is to visit a department store and get a makeover. There are many trained makeup
artists at these counters and if you explain to them the different needs you will have for makeup in the different
facets of the pageant, they will help you with your makeup needs. Clinique, Estee Lauder, Lancome, Ultima,
Elizabeth Arden and many others have help available for you. In addition, to a makeover, these makeup
counters can help you set up a skin care program. The Rose Marie Collection offers a wonderful skin care
program also. Merle Norman also offers excellent makeup products and advice. Ultima was the first to develop
the lipstick that won’t smear or smudge and has recently released 18-hour foundation advertised not to come off
on clothing.
SKIN CARE HINTS:
 Always wash with hot water, this opens the pores to release impurities.
 Follow washing with a freshener with less than 50% alcohol to remove leftover impurities.
 Follow this with a moisturizer formulated for your skin type.
 Protect your face with foundation during the day.
 Avoid fatty foods such as chocolate, nuts and fried foods.
 Avoid touching your hands to your face, your hands have oil and other impurities on them.
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MAKEUP HINTS:
 Always set your foundation with powder applied with a brush.
 Apply foundation in dots on your face. Blend upward with sponge.
 Remove eye makeup with special remover or mineral oil on a cotton pad.
 For disguising faults remember dark makes things look smaller, light makes things look larger.
 Apply moisturizer and foundation to eyelids before eye shadow to prevent creasing, set with powder.
 Keep eyebrows neatly tweezed, avoid over tweezing.
 Keep mascara to 2 coats to prevent clumping.
Stage Competition Appearance
In stage competition, contestants should keep many things in mind when deciding what clothing,
accessories, and makeup. The ideal situation is that you know the setting where the stage competition will be
held, is it dark, light, how far will the stage be from the judges, etc. However, no matter the situation, there are
some tips for any stage competition:
For stage competition, you will need more makeup than an interview or other close up event:
 Darken eye makeup and lipstick to help your features show up on stage.
 Stage clothing should be chosen to show up far away, remember intricate detail will not show up on
stage, larger detail or contrasting trim will show up on stage.
 The main thing to consider is the time of day: remember for evening velvet, rhinestones, sequin trim,
metallic brocade and other glamorous fabrics are appropriate as are leather with beaded fringe or
rhinestone trim to help make the leather more glamorous. For daytime stage competition, stick to more
traditional leather ensembles such as skirts & jackets or leather dresses with traditional fringe trim.
Never wear rhinestones, sequins or other flashy fabrics for daytime competition.
 Always remember fit is the most important thing. Skirt lengths should cover the boot top, preferably
halfway down the chin, and sleeve length should just reach wrists. A too short skirt or too long or short
sleeves will ruin an otherwise beautiful outfit.
 Choose styles that flatter your body style, not necessarily the latest trends. Fitted styles, not tight, but
properly fitted, flatter most body types. There are many styles to hide different body flaws, look for the
styles that help accentuate your best features and minimize your flaws.
 Stay away from backless, low-cut, high slits and any other questionable styles.
 At all times make sure that your hat is dusted, and your boots are polished. Many appearance judges will
deduct heavily for this sloppiness.
 Never wear fashion heel boots; walking heel boots with cement soles are preferable.
 Colored hats are out of style, wear a black or white hat & boots and match belts either to hat & boots or
have it made to match outfit. One look that is popular is to wear boots that match the outfit. This makes
the outfit look more put together. The old rule was match hat, boots and belt. This is no longer a hard
and fast rule.
 Sequin gowns are now not permitted at Miss Rodeo America, so they are therefore not recommended in
any rodeo queen competition. Stick to truly western styles with your own flair and originality.
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 Remember, no outfit is complete without a genuine smile.
 Never let others talk you into wearing something you don’t feel wonderful in, it will show through.
 Remember you posture at all times to look best in your clothes.
 Pay attention to detail, matching earrings, sash pin and other accessories will go very far in finishing off
an outfit.
 Pay attention to the clothing guidelines of the pageant that you are competing in. Ask questions if you
are not sure what is expected of you.
Interview Competition Appearance
Interview outfits should be very different from evening stage attire and even from daytime wear for
other events. Contestants should remember that they will be close to judges and that they want judges to focus
on them, while also looking western, yet slightly businesslike. A nice western leather skirt and jacket are always
a great look for an interview.
Other appearance tips for successful interviews:
 Avoid harsh colors; choose more subdued colors that compliment the contestants coloring.
 Pay particular attention to detail with hair, makeup and clothing.
 Makeup should be more subdued than in stage competition.
 Stick to modest, more professional type necklines.
 Fit of clothing is of the most importance as the judges will see close up how the clothing fits, skirts
should possibly a bit longer so that legs don’t show when sitting.
 Practice sitting in your interview outfit to see how it works, never have slits in the front of skirts.
 Make sure here that clothing, boots and hats are clean and in good shape.
 Never wear sequins or any type of metallic fabrics for an interview.
Horsemanship Competition Appearance
Horsemanship competition clothing and makeup should be much the same, as you would wear if you
were entering an AQHA Show, but there are many hints to help you look better when you are riding.
HORSEMANSHIP APPEARANCE GUIDELINES:
 Wear dark colored pants unless you are thin and there is no possibility of you having anything other than
a perfect seat in the saddle. Darker pants are slimming and if your seat leaves the saddle, it is less
evident.
 The same is true with boots. Light colored boots will bring attention to your feet. If you are sure that
your feet will always be in the perfect condition, wear white boots.
 There are many different opinions on hair in horsemanship, but you are safe curling it then pulling it
back. This will show less bounce and looks very professional.
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 Never wear fringe on a horsemanship blouse, this will emphasis bounce and it very distracting.
 Pants should be long enough to meet the heel of your boots when you are sitting in the saddle. Just
before entering the arena, make sure they haven’t ridden up.
 Never wear too tight pants; you won’t be able to mount properly.
 Always wear panty hose to prevent panty lines.
 Be creative with your blouse, make sure the color is flattering and that the fabric shows up well in the
arena. The classiest horsemanship shirts shimmer and twinkle under the lights, and aren’t brassy bright
colors. Understated seems to be the trend, but the shirt still need to show up.
 Makeup should be more toward stage competition makeup. Judges will be viewing you from afar the
majority of the time, and your makeup needs to be adjusted to show up.
 The most important part of your appearance is your smile and grace. Practice relaxing and smiling and
this will be easier to do. A radiant smile no matter the situation will go along way toward your
appearance score.
 Remember posture at all times. A beautiful blouse won’t be nearly as beautiful if it is on slouched
shoulders.
Review clothing guidelines carefully, for each judged division. In the MRA pageant, WRANGLERS are
required. Wrangler is a major sponsor of rodeo and any judge affiliated with rodeo will be looking for
contestants to be wearing WRANGLERS.
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