Queen Mary to grace Sisters Rodeo

Mary Olney from Warm Springs is Sisters Rodeo Queen. She is the granddaughter of Chief Delvis Heath Sr. Olney grew up on the Warm Springs reservation, where she learned about her Native culture and where she developed a love for horses and rodeo.

She is a 2019 graduate of Madras High School (with honors), where she participated in soccer, cheer, softball, National Honor Society, and student council. She was also active in the Lyle Gap 4-H Club showing market goats and swine, and she served as president for the Madras FFA chapter.

Olney comes from generations of rodeo family. Her grandmother used to ride bareback, her mother ran barrels, her brothers currently ride bulls and broncs, and many other family members have participated in wild horse racing. Mary started participating in junior rodeos, play days, and horse clinics at an early age.

Growing up, she was instilled with a passion for animals, rodeo, and in the Western way of life. Mary believes that growing up around rodeo teaches some very valuable lessons: Lend a hand when needed, stay humble and determined, and get back on if you get bucked off!

Mary loves being with her two horses, Dixie and Lonestar, on long trail rides and gaming competitions. She also enjoys learning to train young colts with her brothers. Olney is no stranger to the “Biggest Little Show in the World.” She and her family have attended the Sisters Rodeo for many years.

Olney graduated from Tulsa Welding School in Oklahoma, achieving “Top One” welder. She moved to Southern Oregon, where she works as a TIG welder for Cascade Fire Equipment, but her roots run deep in Central Oregon and she returns often to stay connected.

“I am so excited for 2022 and I truly believe it is going to be an incredible year for all of us,” Olney said. “My horse Dixie and I cannot wait to get to know everyone and to represent the Sisters Rodeo to the best of my ability in this upcoming year. I look forward to meeting and seeing everyone next week.”

Indeed she is very accessible and welcomes all to introduce themselves, especially young riders who aspire to rodeo or who just share her love of animals.