Cochrane’s newest rodeo royalty would like to take the time to introduce herself to the community as Lacey Blouin ushers in her reign for the upcoming year.
As one of the younger queens that the Lions have crowed, is currently a Grade 12 student at Cochrane High School.
“I am looking into graduating within the first semester,” she said. “I haven’t had a normal high school experience, and I’m perfectly ok with that because it opened up so many opportunities for me.
“After I graduate, I will hopefully be taking Ag Management and Business at Olds College, so I’m super excited for that journey. I’ll be applying for that within a couple of months I think.”
Blouin said she was very lucky to be recommended to compete in this year’s event.
“A family friend of ours found out that they were looking for some contestants for the rodeo queen competition, and so I put my name forward,” she said.
After sending in her application, Blouin underwent a series of competitions and examinations where she was ultimately selected. This eventually led to her crowing at the Cochrane Lions Rodeo, where her reign officially started.
As a born and raised Cochranite, Blouin said the Cochrane Lions Rodeo has always played a big role in her life.
“I’ve always gone, and I don’t think there’s been a year that we haven’t attended,” she said. “I have so many memories of seeing the rodeo queens, and I was definitely that girly little girl. I loved seeing the princesses and horses.
“As I’ve gotten older, I’ve definitely looked into it, just knowing former Cochrane queens, having good experiences at the Rodeo, and also being a competitor in it.”
Blouin said she’s always admired the work of the Cochrane Lions, adding that she loves the idea of being an ambassador for the sport of rodeo, while also being part of their group.
“I had originally planned to compete next year, so it was quite last minute for me to jump into this year’s competition,” Blouin said.
With big boots to fill, Blouin said she is a perfect fit for this role. As someone who is a mature for her age, along with a love of Cochrane, Blouin said it is truly an honour to wear the crown over the next year.
“I was born and raised in Cochrane and it is such a dear place in my heart,” Blouin said. “I’ve always been fascinated with the heritage of Cochrane, I know all sorts of special pieces of knowledge from growing up here, and I guess that connection with the community that I have here.
“It makes me so proud to represent Cochrane because this is my hometown where I’ve been raised, and it really holds a special place in my heart.”
Looking to the future, Blouin said she excited to see where her new title will take her and to help inspire others to follow down the path of rodeo royalty.
“I’m also excited to help and experience all of the Lions events, fundraising, and all they do,” she added. “And just to see a whole other side of the good work that they do. I’m so excited and ready for it all.”
With her dream finally a reality, Blouin said she is truly grateful to be named the new queen and is ready to jump head-first into her duties.
“I’m really hoping that we as a community can make an impact in so many different causes and work as a team to get to really know one another,” Blouin said. “I’m so excited to meet everyone and anyone. If you see me out and about, come say hi.”
