Miss Rodeo Kentucky Morgan Askins
As the 2022 Miss Rodeo Kentucky begins, we set down with last year’s winner Morgan Askins to learn more about what it takes to be a rodeo queen.
What made you want to be a rodeo queen?
As a youth I was heavily involved in 4-H and FFA, among various other youth development organizations. It was at the All American Quarter Horse Congress that I first met a queen in the equine industry. I knew it was something I wanted to do from that point forward. I ran for Miss Rodeo Kentucky at 24 years old. I firmly believe my maturity, post-secondary education in agriculture, and life experience have aided me in being the best Miss Rodeo Kentucky I can be.
What does it take to win the crown?
Rodeo queening is so much more than a beauty contest! Our pageant competitions are made up of horsemanship, public speaking, interviews, extemporaneous questions, written test and modeling. An in-depth understanding of agriculture, equine, professional rodeo and western traditions is essential to be successful.
What type of work do you do as the rodeo queen?
As a rodeo queen I travel Kentucky and across the United States to promote the sport of rodeo. While attending events I assist wherever I am needed from the production side. No job is insignificant, as it takes everyone to put on a successful event. Some rodeos I have sold tickets, while others I have been involved carrying sponsor flags and assisting the rodeo clown with acts. One of my favorite responsibilities as a rodeo queen is interacting with rodeo fans from all walks of life, and explaining our sport and lifestyle.
How did you get involved with the rodeo?
The equine industry has always play a significant role in my life. I moved to Stephenville, Texas to purse my Masters at Tarleton State University in 2018. It was during my time in “The Cowboy Capital of the World” my interest in rodeo flourished. I even had the opportunity to work for professional breakaway roper, JJ Hampton. Living in Stephenville, I was fulling immersed in the sport and lifestyle; something that has and will continue to influence my life in years to come.
For those not familiar with the Miss Rodeo pageant, what do you think would surprise people the most?
There is a vast amount of knowledge that is needed to be successful in this role as a rodeo queen. One must be well studied and understand the areas of rodeo, equine, animal welfare, topics related to agriculture and current events. Specific to the PRCA/WPRA a queen should be able to converse over current news/events, rules and media guide information. Additionally, we have equine knowledge in the areas of AQHA, anatomy, physiology, equine science, and equine tack.
Aside from rodeo, what are some of your hobbies?
In addition to rodeo, I am an enthusiast of American Quarter Horses and Rocky Mountain horses, and enjoy competing in AQHA, NRHA, ARHA and NMHA-sanctioned events. Aside from my involvement in the equine industry I enjoy sewing, leatherwork, and line dancing.
Anything else we should know?
My platform this year as Miss Rodeo Kentucky 2022 is #planttheseed. I have worked alongside and supped youth development organizations, specifically 4-H and FFA. I have enjoyed giving back to the organizations whom previously poured so heavily i
nto me. It is an honor to have been able to assist in the development of future leaders of the agriculture industry. I am excited to see how these individuals utilize this information and improve their skill set this year and beyond.
