New rodeo princess crowned

SUPERIOR - Mineral County crowned a new rodeo princess on Thursday July 3 at the fairgrounds in Superior and her first responsibility as a representative for the area was met on Friday as she marched in the 4th of July parade in St. Regis.

After demonstrating her skills handling her horse and answering a few questions about equine health and rodeo events, Mary Grace Donally was awarded the crown of 2014 rodeo princess.

Despite losing her hat twice to the wind during the riding formation portion of the judging, Donally was able to perform up to the standards of the judges. Donally said she was proud to represent the rodeo for the county.

“This is really cool,” Donally said. “I’ve been riding forever and I’ve been dreaming about this.”

Rodeo princess runner up Jonna Warnken said while she was a little disappointed with her performance, she said she was determined to come back next year and win the title.

“I could’ve done a little better but it was my first year,” Warnken said. “I’m proud of how my horse did and we will come back next year and nail it.”

Rodeo princess judges Alta Boyes and Roberta Ball said what they were looking for in the new princess was a superior grasp of equine knowledge and control of the horse. Both judges said while Warnken performed well, Donally had a greater command of the skills necessary to represent the county as the 2014 rodeo princess.

“We are looking for skill in horsemanship and knowledge of rodeo events,” Boyes said. “We also look for knowledge of horse care and community service.  Presentation is also very important.”

Ball said what also counts in the judging is not only the appearance and health of the horse but how the rider looks in the saddle. She said how the rider carries herself astride her mount translates to how well she will be received by audiences.

“How well they sit in the saddle and whether they have their legs in the right place plays a part,” Ball said. “Whether they are sitting up straight and how well they communicate with their horse is important. A big part is how in touch with the horse they are. This is all about representing the rodeo to the community. They are a liaison a messenger and a role model to future rodeo queens.”

Mineral County Rodeo Committee member Shawn Heyer said the significance of being crowned rodeo princess was being an element of an important aspect of the community. Heyer said acting as a representative for the rodeo was a way to support a family friendly event the community has come to cherish.

“This is a family event and this is a way to get kids involved at a young age in the rodeo,” Heyer said. “These girls are involved in the community. They help out with 4-H and the schools.”