April 24, 2008
Royalty Reigns and Reins

Photo by Hayley Gloeckner Chanille Chouquer, 2008 Clark County Fair & Rodeo Queen

By Tyra Lytle, Staff Writer

Chanille Chouquer of Panaca, NV is the reigning 2008 Clark County Rodeo Queen. Chanille competed in the 2008 queen contest, won and began her responsibilities as Queen at the Clark County Fair and Rodeo held in Logandale, NV, April 10th – 13th. There is more to being a queen than wearing a hat, smiling prettily and waving. Chanille was judged in horsemanship, appearance, personality and speech. Each area had specific requirements and points were awarded based on how well each contestant met those requirements.

Horsemanship points are tallied on how well the contestant controls her mount, proper arena etiquette and the ability to execute a specific set of riding and reining instructions referred to as a “pattern”. Balance, ability and position of hands, feet and seat while riding the patterns at different speeds are rated. Cueing your horse to pick up the proper leads while executing the specific pattern is crucial and requires knowledge and skill. Mounting, dismounting, presentation; the Queen Wave, and showmanship; the ability of the contestant to project her personality to the audience from horseback. Knowledge of horsemanship and equine science based on verbal responses to questions from the judges is part of this score.

Appearance and personality categories included grooming, posture, poise, grace and style. Knowledge of how to present a “total look” and project your personality in any situation, whether on horseback or on stage must be demonstrated in the short time each contestant has before the judges. Knowledge of trends in western fashion and the importance of sponsorships by the western wear industry as applied to professional rodeo is determined by the judges. The contest allows the judges to determine a contestant’s intelligence, common sense, sense of humor, promptness and personal standards through the tasks performed.

Preparing and presenting a 2 minute speech with no props demonstrates the contestant’s ability to communicate with appropriate and correct language. Impromptu questions from the judge give the opportunity to showcase the ability to think on your feet and your knowledge of the subject assigned.

Chanille excelled in all categories. Her achievements not only brought her the privilege and responsibility of reigning as the Clark County Fair and Rodeo Queen, but several rewards including, new tack, a beautiful buckle and an $8000.00 scholarship. Chanille plans to apply the scholarship as she pursues her goal of training as a veterinarian.