Medicine Hat Exhibition Stampede Queen and Princess Charlie Christie and Charlatan Sandford pose for a portrait in the Stampede director's lounge on Sunday during Boot Camp. News Photo: Anna Smith.
asmith@medicinehatnews.com
Rodeo Royalty hopefuls made their way out to the Medicine Hat Exhibition and Stampede office on Sunday, for a change to learn everything they need for this year’s Queen competition.
The experience was slightly surreal for Medicine Hat Exhibition Stampede Princess Charlatan Sandford and Stampede Queen Charlie Christie, who said it feels like it was only a few weeks ago they were receiving the advice they were now giving to prospective competitors.
“It is good to see people that are interested, and it’s such a great way to find out what’s happening with rodeo royalty and get a sense of what’s to expect and to just really prepare yourself for what’s to come,” said Christie. “So I found boot camp really beneficial, and it gave me that extra boost in my decision to run, and I hope it does the same for who we have here today.”
Attendees were given a detailed explanation of each of the different components they would be judged on during competition week, as well as advice for each category on how to put their best, most authentic foot forward.
“Boot camp was an absolute honour to attend as a contestant. It taught me what I needed to know, what I was going to be judged on, and it gave me tips and tricks to better myself and present myself and my horse as our best possible versions,” said Sandford. “I just think it is absolutely amazing that we are able to provide these tips and tricks so girls know what to expect and what competition is going to look like, to help ease some of the nerves going into competition week.”
The afternoon included information on some of the many sponsors that help make competition week possible and keep the Queen and Princess presenting as their best selves throughout their year, as well as advice from past royalty.
One such sponsor, Bratt Pak the Hair & Body Business gave a presentation on how to keep those iconic curls throughout long events, among other presentations.
For potential contestant Joleigh Wood, the afternoon was eye-opening, and she felt it really helped her prepare for what’s to come this summer.
She had considered running last year, but after attending this year’s bootcamp, she remarked that she was certain she intended to give it her best in the 2025 competition.
“I am very grateful that they are putting this on, definitely going to help me in multiple ways,” said Wood. “Especially in things like modelling or interviews, which I haven’t done before. I definitely think this is going to help with presenting myself in the competition and I’m very grateful to possibly be given this opportunity.”
The entry period for the competition opens on April 1, and will run until the end of April.
“As the princess, it has been absolutely an incredible year, something that I will cherish for the rest of my life,” said Sandford. “I find pure enjoyment in going to any event that we go to, and I love feeling that sense of partnership between Charlie and I.”
Christie echoed the sentiment, adding that she loves being able to have a positive impact on her community and be an ambassador for the sport of rodeo.
Those interested in competing for the title of 2025 Medicine Hat Exhibition and Stampede Queen are encouraged to visit the Stampede website for the application package, which can be then dropped off at the office.
