2013 SISTERS RODEO QUEEN
Sharing Her 2013 Sisters Rodeo Queen Whitney Richey living a lifelong dream.
Photo courtesy of Whitney Richey
Becoming a rodeo queen has been a dream of this year’s Sisters Rodeo Queen, Whitney Richey, since she was 5. At the Umpqua Rodeo, caught up in the thrill and the romance of rodeo — bright chaps, crowns and galloping horses — Whitney never forgot the message from that year’s Umpqua Rodeo Queen: “Courage is being scared to death and saddling up anyway.” This statement had an impact on Richey, motiving her to reach other people in the same way. The 22-year-old was one of six contestants to vie for the title last fall
on the Sisters Rodeo Grounds. Judging for the competition is based on a point system that grades an interview, a speech to rodeo members and guests, and a horsemanship demonstration. “Whitney’s horsemanship allowed her to shine above the others,” said rodeo queen judge Wendy Weems. Richey competed on Remi, her 10year-old quarter horse mare. A graduate of Thurston High School and a 3.5 GPA student at the University of Oregon, Richey began the horsemanship campaign through her participation in 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 Co-ed 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 her dad, “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,” Richey said. “I look forward to a year of promoting the sport I love and educate people about the events, traditions and way of life.” — Courtesy of Bonnie Malone, Sisters Rodeo
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