Sisters Rodeo Queen receives NPRA crown

Dressed in a stunning teal-and-white gown, Emily Clark, 2011 Sisters Rodeo Queen, was crowned Miss Northwest Professional Rodeo Association at Bend Elks Lodge on Saturday, February 25.

The NPRA is the regional rodeo association in the nation, a professional and amateur rodeo that can be found in 45 locations across Oregon, Washington, parts of Idaho and California. Its rodeos make it possible for cowboys and cowgirls to compete without the need to travel great distances.

Clark was accompanied by 15 NPRA and PRCA queens from Oregon and Washington rodeos, Miss Teen NPRA, Miss Rodeo Oregon and Miss Rodeo America.

Two hundred guests watched as Emily was escorted by her father, Brent Clark, to be met by the president of the NPRA, Gary Werz, and the current Miss NPRA, Shaliana Joiner. As she was crowned, Emily was greeted with cheers and enthusiastic applause.

"She's a wonderful daughter," said her father. "We never know what she's going to get into, but whatever it is, she gives it her whole heart. This has been an incredible experience."

A senior majoring in psychology at the University of Oregon, Clark received associates degrees in science and art at Central Oregon Community College. She also farms with her brother on the family's Tumalo ranch, where the two young entrepreneurs grow hay.

Her boyfriend, Nate Suing, also a hay farmer, enjoys traveling with Emily and her family to rodeos where she represented Sisters last year and will be representing all 45 NPRA rodeos this year. "It's a great experience," he explained with a big smile, "and gives me a break from farming."

Surrounded by family and friends, Clark received praise for her work ethic, her ambition to challenge herself, and her seemingly endless energy. Both her mother, Jan, and grandmother, Muriel Clark, expressed feeling "blessed by having this spectacular young woman in our lives."

"I am honored to represent the NPRA," said Clark, "and I'm so grateful for all the people who came to support me tonight."