REGINA - Canadian Western Agribition has crowned its first Miss Rodeo Agribition.
She is Ari Dyck, a 19-year-old from White City who was awarded the title in an announcement Wednesday at the Maple Leaf Finals Rodeo.
Dyck will now spend the next year representing Agribition in public appearances as their official Brand Ambassador.
In speaking to reporters Thursday morning Dyck was still excited about winning the title, which she said realizes a childhood dream.
“ Eight year old me is like screaming right now because I am making a childhood dream for myself come true that I honestly never knew I had,” said Dyck. “ I grew up watching Miss Rodeo Canada get crowned every year and I never thought I’d be a rodeo queen myself but here I am, and I’m so thrilled for what the year is going to bring.”
Those competing for the crown at Agribition had their skills tested in a number of competitions including a horsemanship contest on Tuesday, a written test on their knowledge of rodeo information, a public speaking competition, and a private interview.
During her public speaking presentation, Dyck spoke about women in the trades, a topic she said is very passionate about because she is pursuing a career as a welder in the trades.
“The thing that people don’t really know is that only six per cent of workers in trades are female,” Dyck said. “We are very small minority and every day, every year there are more women entering the trades, and I really want to show young girls and boys and anybody that if you put your mind to something and it’s completely out of the normal but it’s what you want to do then do it. Because you feel so rewarded and fulfilled in life doing something that you’re passionate about, versus doing a job that you’re doing just because of whatever and you’re not enjoying it.”
Dyck received a number of prizes as the winner, including two pairs of Ariat boots, several pairs of Wrangler Jeans, and a shopping trip to Cowtown.
She is excited to make history as the first Miss Rodeo Agribition.
“I feel honored. The nerves have kind of settled down from last night. I’m so thrilled and honoured to be given a role like this where I can showcase Agribition as a whole be that brand ambassador for and be that representation of rodeo, this lifestyle… I’m beyond thankful and this will forever hold a special place in my heart.
