I cannot believe 2012 has come to an end. Definitely an unforgettable year in my life. I finished my year as Miss Rodeo Airdrie 2011, and began a new journey: Miss Rodeo Canada 2013!
Signing Autographs at the NRS Shopping Experience at the MGM Grand
Wrapping up the year with the Wrangler National Finals Rodeo was an incredible experience. It was a busy 10 days but I enjoyed every minute. Watching the Miss Rodeo America 2013 pageant in person has been something I always wanted to do since I have been watching the videos over the years. Getting to know Miss Rodeo America 2012 Mackenzie Carr was also a blast. Since we were both in the grand entry at the Rodeo and helped with the Montana Silversmiths buckle presentations at the South Point, we got to share quite a few memories. Hearing ‘How bout them Cowgirls’ made famous by George Straight (Who I also got to meet!) was a surreal feeling because that was our cue to take off into the Thomas and Mack. It is an indescribable feeling, to hear that crowd roar after they called my name, and every time I finished my lap I came out with a big grin on my face. I am truly living my dream.
Canadian Mittens for Miss Rodeo America!
During the WFNR I also had the opportunity to do some autograph signings for my amazing sponsors: Roper, Tin Haul, Stetson, Wrangler and Montana Silversmiths. This gave me the opportunity to meet Rodeo fans from around the world. After signing so many autographs I think I am almost a professional name speller.
A few charity events I attended were Bob Tallman’s Charity Bowling Tournament and the PRCA Exceptional Rodeo. Both were quite memorable days. George Straight’s guitar player, Joel Manuel taught me how to ten pin bowl which really improved my game. As soon as he told me which bowling balls to use I immediately got a strike. That was a huge improvement for hitting the gutter almost every time. At the Excpetional Rodeo I got to spend a day with an amazing kid Azure. Once he sat in the saddle for a real horse ride, a smile immediately appeared on his face. It is so overwhelming to realize the obstacles some individuals have day to day. Making Azures day reminded me that I will have the opportunity to do that quite frequently this year with many kids. That is something I am most looking forward to doing.
Grand Entry photo by Covy Moore!
I am so blessed and honoured to have had this experience. I would like to thank everyone for their supporting words along the way and also Jack Daines for presenting MRC with $1000.00 Cheque! What a great way to end 2012.
This also means that 2013 is about to begin! I am so excited to be a part of the Everything Cowboy team! I will be heading Denver National Stock Show and Rodeo in January next and I am so looking forward to what looks like a fantastic year!
Wishing you all a very Merry Christmas!
Happy Trails!
Gillian Shields
Miss Rodeo Canada 2013
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