Getting close to the summit of a tall mountain without quite reaching its peak is nevertheless an exhilarating and worthwhile once-in-a-lifetime experience, both literally and metaphorically.
Although not being crowned Miss Rodeo Canada at this year's Canadian Finals Rodeo in Edmonton was a bittersweet experience — especially after placing as the first runner-up to the title — Sundre-area resident Desirae Jackson did not seem to have any regrets when she spoke with the Round Up.
Taking the 2017 Miss Rodeo Canada title was Medicine Hat's Ali Mullin.
However, Jackson largely performed outstandingly in six categories upon which the four contestants were judged, and went on to win three of them, making the contest a particularly close race.
Those categories were public speaking, modelling and a written exam on horsemanship and rodeo knowledge. And while the personal interview went well, she did not place first. However, reining patterns on a randomly selected steed proved to be a challenge when the horse she was assigned turned out to be rather free-spirited, she said.
Preparing for the Canadian Finals Rodeo was a massive undertaking. Having spent roughly six months studying and practising for the event, she fully devoted herself and put in countless hours, said her father Marvin Jackson, adding he could not be more proud.
“There was nobody there who had their heart into it as much as Desirae,” he said.
The funds raised on Oct. 1 at the James River Hall during a community event supporting her efforts will be donated to the Mount View Special Riding Association as well as the Sundre Santa's Anonymous program, said Desirae.
Formerly holding the Miss Rodeo Sundre and even Alberta High School Rodeo queen titles, the fifth-generation farm girl said she has dedicated a significant portion of time to rodeo, and now plans to turn over a new leaf to begin her next chapter, which includes aspirations to travel before pursuing a full-time career with Alberta Health Services.
But the cowgirl will not be riding off into the sunset, never to be seen again any time soon — quite the contrary.
“I'm planning on being a director still for the Miss Rodeo Sundre organization.”
So even as she forges a new path forward, Desirae has every intention of remaining connected to the rodeo community she grew up in.
