NILE Rodeo ~ Billings

            The week before the NILE I came to do some school visits with a truly one of a kind program called REACh. This program brought rodeo to the kids with a ton of fun displays, pictures, and rodeo equipment. While the program ran, the kids learned about our nation and rodeo in a way that included a history lesson and even math. It also taught the kids to “Cowboy Up” and stay away from drugs, gangs, and bullies and to make their own path. I really can’t say enough about this wonderful program and I hope to work with them again.

            It was great to be back in Billings for the NILE Rodeo this year. Just this time last year, I remember coming to the MRM Clinic and learning what really goes into the state pageant. It was fun to meet other title holders from all over the state, and to share stories about our years. I had no idea that I would have the chance to come back as royalty once again.

            After a blustery, cold, and snowy drive home from Billings, I was back on the road again. Thankfully for this trip, the weather was great. Once I got back into Billings I was off to the first of four nights of action packed rodeo. The stock brought by the Sankeys was great as always, and it was great to see their pickup men J2 and Bobby. The grand entry every night was top notch, and even included fireworks.

            Friday and Saturday were the days of the clinic which included everything from makeup to rodeo lingo to horsemanship. And I was impressed with how many participants we got this year, including 3 of the Miss Rodeo/ Miss Teen Rodeo Montana Contestants. The pressure was definitely on with the pageant just around the corner. I had fun and learned a lot while sitting in on the modeling and listening to Kate recite her awesome speech. Later that day I also got the chance to sign autographs at Big R with a couple of the cowboys and the barrel man.

            The clinic participants also got the chance to attend the rodeo during the clinic and help out with the Mutton Busting. As they signed up and waited for the names of the riders to be drawn, you could see the excitement on the kids’ faces. And when it was time for the big event they were suited up in a vest and a helmet, placed onto the back of “rank” sheep, and told to hold on. Half of the kids would beam with pride after brushing off the dirt after their ride, but the other half didn’t think it was all that great. But in the end they would all get a prize and a t-shirt, and the winner got a buckle.

            After my cold and snowy adventures back and forth from Billings, I was glad to be back home.

            Until next time, I wish you all the best!

 

God Bless,

 

Jennifer Marshall

MTRM 2008