Sisters Rodeo crowns 2013 queen

Whitney Richey, a resident of Walterville, Oregon, was crowned 2013 Sisters Rodeo Queen on October 7, at Sisters Rodeo Grounds.

The 22-year-old was one of six contestants to vie for the title. Judging is based on combined points from an interview, a speech to rodeo members and guests, and horsemanship demonstrated in a detailed pattern of riding.

According to Judge Wendy Weems, "Whitney's horsemanship allowed her to shine above the others."

Richey competed on Remi, her 10-year-old quarter horse mare.

Richey was inspired at the age of 5 at Umpqua Rodeo, caught up in the thrill of the romance of rodeo, bright chaps, crowns and galloping horses. She never forgot the message from that Umpqua Rodeo queen, "Courage is being scared to death and saddling up anyway." It had an impact on her that motivated her to reach other people in the same way.

A graduate of Thurston High School and a 3.5-GPA-student at the University of Oregon, Richey began the campaign to a title with Pee Wee Rodeo, Junior Rodeo and her high school equestrian team. She served as Yoncalla Rodeo Senior Princess in 2005 and 2006, and was Yoncalla Rodeo Queen in 2007. She currently is a member of The Desperado Coed Drill Team and plans to become a dental hygienist.

"Whitney was the most polished in her presentation and demeanor," said Kathy Hansbrough, another of the competition judges. "She will represent Sisters Rodeo well."

With her rodeo court, Richey began a program of visiting the veterans hospital and sharing time for conversations, photos, encouragement and gratitude.

"Most importantly," Richey said, "we listened to their stories. The looks on their faces was indescribable. We let them know that we appreciated and support them. Taking time to show we are thankful for them was a moving feeling."

Her parents are Debbi and Craig Richey, lifelong horse people who like to trail-ride from their home base in Walterville.

"We are behind her all the way," said Craig, "and we feel that this is a good opportunity for Whitney."

They will be very happy to spend more time in Central Oregon, where Debbi was born and raised.

"I am honored and excited to represent the professional sport of rodeo as Sisters Rodeo Queen," the newly crowned queen stated. "I look forward to a year of promoting the sport I love and educate people about the events, traditions and way of life."

Sisters Rodeo has five performances June 5, 7-9.

For tickets and information, call the ticket hotline at 541-549-0121 or 1-800-827-7522, or visit the ticket office, 220 W. Cascade Ave. in Sisters. For information, visit www.sistersrodeo.com.