The top three competitors are all geared up for the 6th annual Lions Rodeo Royalty competition. The crowning of the princess and the queen will take place Sept. 1 at the 48th Annual Cochrane Lions Labour Day Rodeo.
Monique Uittenbogerd
Age: 17
Hometown: Acme
Eagle: Why did you enter the Rodeo Royalty competition?
Uittenbogerd: I had the chance to represent the Crossfield Pete Knight Rodeo, I had an amazing experience that helped me grow and reach out to people. I’m hoping that if I get crowned that I will get the chance to do just that.
Eagle: What do you hope to get out of the competition?
Uittenbogerd: I hope to get feedback in order to improve, learn something from my fellow competitors, and have fun!
Eagle: What skills or traits that set you apart from other competitors?
Uittenbogerd: I have been an active 4-H member attending everything from horse shows, to clinics, to multi judging allowing me to gain some helpful public speaking skills. I have also been able to attend five provincial 4-H camps. The camps have taught me valuable leadership and communication skills.
Nicole Bauer
Age: 17
Hometown: Calgary, but has lived in Cochrane for 12 years.
Eagle: Why did you enter the Rodeo Royalty competition?
Bauer: I think it would be a great opportunity to become an ambassador for the community! I have grown up around horses and I go to the Rodeo every year with my family. I think to be representing something that is a tradition in my family, would be amazing.
Eagle: What do you hope to get out of the competition?
Bauer: I hope to become more comfortable with public speaking and to represent my community and the Lions Club. I also believe it will help me to improve my leadership skills.
Eagle: What skills or traits that set you apart from other competitors?
Bauer: I have a supper bubbly personality, and enjoy interacting with the public. I am a member of 4-H and enjoy being a leader for the younger members.
Kaitlin Paul
Age: 17
Hometown: Sherwood Park, but has lived in Cochrane for 17 years.
Eagle: Why did you enter the Rodeo Royalty competition?
Paul: To be able to represent the town of Cochrane would be a great experience. I have always loved the Rodeo Royalty and it has been a childhood dream of mine, so to finally be able to pursue it is great.
Eagle: What do you hope to get out of the competition?
Paul: I hope to leave the competition a more well rounded individual. I would love to be able to improve my public speaking skills and interaction skills.
Eagle: What skills or traits that set you apart from other competitors?
Paul: I know how to adapt and be a quick thinker. I have a true passion for horses and rodeo, which I would love to share with the community. I am extremely driven so I feel like I would add my own personal touch to the 2015 Royalty.
* Answers have been edited for length and clarity
