December, 2018

Looking back on the last 365 days, its hard to imagine my reign as Miss Rodeo Canada 2018 has come to a conclusion. I find myself smiling as I reflect on my many memories from the past year, but I am also very excited to see what my future will bring as I open the next chapter.

The success of my year was not based on the kilometers I traveled, it was not about the number of rodeos I attended or grand entries I rode in. No, it was about the numerous experiences this title has provided me, which allowed me to grow as an individual. It is about the many wonderful memories and friends I made along the way. As far as life lessons go, I have learned to always confirm my wallet is packed before going through airport security, as they can’t just pass it through to you. I’ve learned that it’s okay to embarrass yourself at your very first event by entering into the wrong washroom – it could only get better from this point. I’ve learned that no matter what wardrobe malfunctions you experience or transportation problems you have, there will always be a rodeo family willing to lend a helping hand. Finally, I think the most humorous lesson I learned, was when in Australia and ordering a cheese burger with only mustard and ketchup, always remember to mention you still want the burger and cheese on the bun as well. These situations are some of the fun memories that I will cherish and smile about when I reminisce about my year as Miss Rodeo Canada.

Thank you to the many people who have made my past year so extraordinary! It would not have been possible without the support of sponsors; the CPRA; host families; cowboys, cowgirls and their families and of course both the Miss Rodeo Canada Board of Directors and my parents. The MRC Directors provided me with unwavering dedication and support throughout the year for which I am extremely grateful. To my mom and dad, you have always been there and provided me unconditional support with every crazy goal I set out to achieve and I will always Love You “More”.

Even though 2018 has flown by, I definitely made an effort to savour every minute of my year as Miss Rodeo Canada. As an unknown author once said, “The best things in life are the people we love, the places we’ve been and the memories we’ve made along the way.”

As I sign off on my final MRC diary, I would like to once again thank all the professional rodeo athletes for making me feel so welcome and for including me in your 2018 rodeo year, and wish each of you a very successful rodeo season in 2019!

Forever Grateful,

Brittney Chomistek
Miss Rodeo Canada 2018

November, 2018

Hats off to Red Deer for hosting such a successful Canadian Finals Rodeo! Each night rodeo fans were treated to exciting performances from Canada's finest rodeo athletes paired up with equally outstanding rodeo stock.

Before the CFR even began, Miss Rodeo Canada contestants arrived early in Red Deer to begin their competition, consisting of Horsemanship, Public Speaking (prepared, impromptu & extemporaneous), Written Rodeo & Equine Exam, Personal Interview and Modelling. On the final day of the competition, MRC contestants participated in a sold-out fashion show and luncheon hosted by the Ladies of Canadian Professional Rodeo. Models showcased the latest fashions from Lammles and Roper with accessories provided by Audi Roy of Classic Rodeo Boutique. Not only were guests treated to an enjoyable afternoon surrounded by friends, but they were also part of a successful event that raises funds for the Canadian Pro Rodeo Sports Medicine Team and the CPRA Cowboy Benefit Fund. We were honoured to be involved in this luncheon, which over the years, has generated over $300,000 for two such worthy causes that support our athletes.

On Friday November 2nd, down in the dirt during the CFR performance, Jaden Holle was crowned Miss Rodeo Canada 2019 (for full results go to www.missrodeocanada.ca) Congratulations to Jaden!

When the dust settled on Championship Sunday, 13 new champions emerged.

Congratulations to the following:
Richmond Champion - Bareback
Clay Elliot - Saddle Bronc
Wacey Finkbeiner - Bull Riding
Shane Hanchey - Tie Down Roping
Scott Guenthner - Steer Wrestling
Callahan Crossley - Ladies Barrel Racing
Jeremy Buhler - Team Roping Heeling
Levi Simpson - Team Roping Header
Mason Helmeczi - Novice Bareback
Cooper Thatcher - Novice Saddle Bronc
Tristen Manning - Steer Riding
Jacob Gardner - All Around
Riley Warren - High Point

Even though our 2019 rodeo season has already begun, 6 Canadians will be wrapping up their 2018 Season at the Wrangler National Finals Rodeo in Las Vegas. Best of luck to Orin Larsen, Zeke Thurston, Clay Elliott, Scott Guenthner, Curtis Cassidy and Carman Pozzobon from all of us who will be proudly cheering and waving our Canadian flags as you compete in Las Vegas! Go Canada!

Forever Grateful,
Brittney Chomistek
Miss Rodeo Canada 2018

For 10 amazing days, Keri Sheffield, Miss Rodeo America and I toured around Australia seeing the iconic sites of the country and promoting the sport of rodeo.

Fun Fact: 32 years ago my mom toured Australia as Miss Rodeo Canada and two of my host moms were part of that trip. Tracy Vellacott was Miss Rodeo New Zealand in 1986 and she toured around with my Mom and Vicki Woodward, Miss Rodeo America. In '86 Natalie Brownlie worked for a pageant sponsor who connected with the international royalty and this year she was the friendly face to greeting me at the airport with a large Welcome Sign.

Prior to Keri's arrival, I was treated to a wonderful day of sailing, island tour and beaches.

Soon Ashleigh Grant, Miss Rodeo Australia, joined us and we three national rodeo queens traveled together. We were so fortunate to visit Steve Irwin's Australian Zoo where we had the opportunity to cuddle Koalas and hangout with kangaroos!! Another first I encountered was feeding wild parrots. I always love seeing them in pet stores, but it is amazing to see a flock in the wild.

In addition to visiting schools, meeting with sponsors and touring the country, we were fortunate to attend the Warwick Rodeo APRA National Finals. Each evening we were welcomed into the arena, side-by-side, three National Rodeo Queens proudly carrying our National Flags. The announcer's accents may have been different, we may not have understood all the slang, but the sport of rodeo and the competitors are the same in each of our countries. 

Thank you Australia for opening your homes and hearts to me, and for making me feel so welcome. I can't believe how many activities you packed into such a short amount of time. Your country side is breathtaking, your wildlife is amazing, but your people are your greatest treasure. Thank you for such a memorable experience! 

After a 16 hour flight and gaining a day, Keri and I landed back on Canadian soil. Because we still had one day to spare before the CFR, we hopped in my Dodge pickup to experience Banff. Keri had never been to Canada before, and a beautiful snowy day in Banff was a perfect introduction. 

Monday October 29, we were back on the road and headed to Red Deer for the Canadian Finals Rodeo. I am so honoured to have been the last Miss Rodeo Canada to have been crowned in the dirt at Northlands and I am excited to be the first MRC to proudly carry the Canadian flag in the Westerner.

Congratulations to all the cowboys and cowgirls who have qualified for the 45th Canadian Finals Rodeo. History is being made and I look forward to sharing the experience with you.

Forever Grateful, 
Brittney Chomistek
Miss Rodeo Canada 2018
Website: MissRodeoCanada.ca

June, 2018

After a dry spell on the prairies, the much needed rain was welcomed throughout Alberta. It did however result in some challenging rodeo conditions...

I started the month off at the 50th anniversary of the Leduc Black Gold Rodeo, where some past and present Canadian Champions secured the top spot. Steer Wrestler Tanner Milan had the fastest time with a 3.4 second run; Layton Green, the current Canadian Saddle Bronc Champ had an 84.5 ride aboard Big Stone Rodeo’s Gone Fishing; and Logan Bird, the current Canadian Tie Down Roping Champion stopped the clock at 4.7 in the Team Roping, with his partner Stacy Cornet. In addition to the traditional rodeo, I had the privilege of helping out at the Rodeo of Smiles, which consists of adapted rodeo events for children with special needs. A special thanks to Dennis Halstead, rodeo clown, for always making the children smile.

After two days in Leduc, I was on the road again to the Grand Prairie Stompede and Chuckwagon Races. While I was at the rodeo, I was able to meet up with Dominic Valine, of Dominic’s Spur and Silver. Not only is Dominic a very talented silversmith and artist, but he is a strong supporter of the Miss Rodeo Canada Program and the donor of my beautiful trophy spurs. I spent two days attending rodeo performances, wagon races, pancake breakfasts, cowboy church service and visiting their rodeo donors.

Plow winds, heavy rain, and periods of intense sunshine – the Brooks Kinsmen Rodeo experienced it all, but that didn’t slow down any of the cowboys. In fact, steer wrestler Matt Mailer, secured first place with a 4.4 second run in the mud and the rain! In an effort to encourage young rodeo competitors, the Kinsmen hosted a Little Britches Rodeo. The crowd cheered on as little ones competed in barrel racing, greased pig competition, calf scramble, pheasant catch and mutton busting to name a few. The afternoon was great medicine for anyone who needed a laugh.

Half way through the month I returned home for the Father’s Day weekend to participate in the World Professional Chuckwagon Races at Medicine Hat. Hundreds of school children toured the stampede grounds to learn about the world of chuckwagon racing, get autograph sheets from rodeo royalty and even meet a few of the drivers who were competing over the weekend. Congratulations to Cody Ridsdale who won the buckle at the Medicine Hat Chuckwagon Races before heading on to High River with his horses.

It was great to see my family for a few days before I drove up to Edmonton for the 40 Anniversary Celebration of the Steadward Centre. This formal gala event honoured an amazing man, Dr. Robert Steadward, who was the founding President of the International Paralympic Committee and an honourary life member of the Canadian Olympic Committee. Legendary Rick Hansen known as the Man in Motion, and country music singer and song writer Brett Kissel, were also in attendance to honour Dr. Steadward.

The next morning, I was back on the road and headed to High River for the Guy Weadick Days Rodeo. Gillian Grant, Trish Seitz and the C5 Rodeo team did an amazing job organizing this Old-Time themed rodeo. Despite the down pour of rain, rodeo fans enjoyed watching cowboys matched up with spectacular rodeo stock in the muddiest of arena conditions. But, the show must go on and fans were treated to a rodeo, the WPCA Chuckwagon races, a ranch horse race, trick roping and mounted shooters. I was very excited when Brinson James, the rodeo clown, asked me to play Flores Ladue in his trick roping act. Flores was not only married to Guy Weadick, founder of the Calgary Stampede, but was also the Champion Lady Fancy Roper of the World.

My final stop for the month of June is the World Famous Ponoka Stampede. Cowboys from all over North America enter this rodeo to compete for $800,000 in prize money, during seven days of rodeo action, and featuring the long alley in the timed events which is always a crowd pleaser. Ponoka is one of the high profile rodeos that make up the CPRA Finning Canada Pro Tour. Rodeo fans have prime seating for daily slack and rodeos performances, followed by evening chuckwagon races and concerts.

My Last day in June was spent at the Ponoka Stampede Rodeo Challenge for children with physical or mental challenges. Rodeo Royalty and Contestants partnered up with children to compete in modified rodeo events such as horseback riding, hand-rocked bronc and bull riding, and hand-pulled chuckwagon races. The rodeo contestants had so much fun with their partners, but the real winners of today were all the children who went home with many memories, big smiles, and new friends who are their heroes in the rodeo world.

Good luck to all the rodeo athletes as Canada kicks off Cowboy Christmas, the biggest rodeo payout week of the year!

Brittney Chomistek
Miss Rodeo Canada 2018
Website: MissRodeoCanada.ca

May, 2018

I am very appreciative of the many people who helped coach, advise, or assist me in preparing for the Miss Rodeo Canada Competition. ...

One of those people was Debra Fox, founder of ‘Queens in Jeans’, an organization dedicated to helping ladies develop skills required for rodeo queen competitions. Last year I attended two ‘Queens in Jeans’ workshops where I gained so much valuable information regarding modeling, impromptu speaking and interview skills. I was honoured when Debra invited me to assist her in a QIJ workshop in Pasco Washington at the beginning of the month. Three other Canadians joined me at this workshop and benefited from Debra’s knowledge and experiences in the rodeo queen world.

May was a very good month for professional rodeo in Canada, as a new sponsor was introduced to our sport. I was pleased to be included in a CPRA press conference announcing a new partnership with Finning Canada. This Caterpillar dealer will become the title sponsor of the Finning Canada Pro Rodeo Tour which will include rodeos in Alberta and BC, with the Finning Pro Rodeo Tour Finals being held in Armstrong BC. The merger of Finning and the CPRA will contribute to the strength of pro rodeo in Canada.

Speaking of sponsors, ATB is one of the major sponsors of the Miss Rodeo Canada program. Terry Andryo, Director of Community Initiatives at ATB, invited me to be his guest at the Stampede City Session. This entertaining event featured Megan Bonnell and Leeroy Stagger.

My schedule is looking very busy for the next four months. If you see my beautiful black Dodge truck at one of the summer rodeos, be sure to stop by and say Hi.

Brittney Chomistek
Miss Rodeo Canada 2018
Website: MissRodeoCanada.ca

April, 2018

As the pro rodeo season picks up in Canada I had the pleasure of appearing at my hometown Spring Rodeo...

The Medicine Hat Broncs and Honky Tonks Indoor Rodeo and Trade Show.

It featured three sold out rodeo performances, with top rodeo athletes paired up with some of the finest Kesler Rodeo Stock. My community welcomed me home with open arms, congratulated me, and wanted to hear about my journey so far. It is always exciting riding into the arena and looking up to the stands to see the many rodeo fans. But its even more heart warming to see the familiar faces of my Mom, Dad, Grandparents and friends smiling back at me. I am fortunate to have so many wonderful people supporting me.

At the Saturday Evening performance of the Medicine Hat rodeo, representatives from Murray Chrysler in Strathmore swapped out my sorrel quarter horse for the most beautiful, brand new, black, Dodge 4x4, 1500 series Ram truck you have ever seen! This flashy ride will be very visible both on the highway and at rodeos!

Prior to my reign as Miss Rodeo Canada I was a student in the Elementary Education Program at Medicine Hat College. My goal is to become a grade 1 or 2 teacher in a rural school. This month I was fortunate to get to once again have the opportunity to educate children. Instead of teaching math, social studies or language arts, I was able to help educate children on the western way of life and the great sport of rodeo.

The Calgary Stampede hosted Aggie Giddy Up Days, which was designed to provide old-fashioned family fun while teaching nearly 10,000 Calgary students about the rural lifestyle, agriculture, and where their food comes from. It was a pleasure to be a part of this amazing event as children of all ages had an opportunity to experience many aspects of country living including watching a farrier in action, attend a rodeo, milk a goat, or observe a working dog competition. Seeing the many smiles as children enjoyed learning about agriculture, reminded me why I love my job as Miss Rodeo Canada. Not only did this educational opportunity connect the Urban and Rural communities but many visitors were also introduced to the world of Rodeo Royalty! Together with the Calgary Stampede Royalty (Jaden, Lindsay and Jessica), Cochrane Lions Rodeo Queen (Jessie), Hanna Pro Rodeo Queen (Jessica), and the Pete Knight Rodeo Princess (Kelsey) we had a great time attending all of the Aggie Giddy Up Days festivities!

So far, my year as Miss Rodeo Canada has been filled with a variety of activities and great memories. As I look at my calendar of events, it looks like it will be a very busy summer attending many rodeo events and I cannot wait to be heading down the rodeo trail in my black dodge truck. Be sure to come say hello and introduce yourself if you happen to see me at any event!

Brittney Chomistek
Miss Rodeo Canada 2018
Website: MissRodeoCanada.ca

March, 2018

As March cruised by, I cannot believe I’m already a quarter of the way through my reign as Miss Rodeo Canada!

Each month, I have been greeted with new adventures and friends along the way making this year so memorable.

Since a young age I have been very involved in my community of Medicine Hat. This month I enjoyed participating in a ceremonial puck drop for the Medicine Hat Tigers along with the local Rodeo Queen and Princess, Lacey and Ava. We enjoyed meeting with other Tiger fans while supporting athletes in a different kind of arena.

As winter in Canada continues on for yet another month, I was fortunate to escape the cold, head down south for another rodeo and soak up a bit of warm weather at the same time. Waiting for me there was a fellow sash sister, Miss Rodeo Arizona, Katie Gheen, who welcomed me into her home and shared some amazing experiences with me during my stay.

In addition to attending all performances for the Scottsdale Parada Del Sol Rodeo, I was able to participate in a few local activities before heading back home. The OdySea Aquarium, was so beautiful. Katie - Miss Rodeo Arizona, Haley - The Turquoise Circuit Queen, and I experienced an underwater adventure in their stingray pool. We were able to walk on the bottom floor next to graceful creatures swimming with ease in a breath taking environment.

The three of us were also guests at the IFly, a simulated skydiving facility where we practiced the art of skydiving while floating in the safety of an air tube. I have realized that the ability to maneuver yourself around, while the wind creates a tunnel around you, is a fairly difficult challenge to master. I found myself spinning around in a circle with no control, but thankfully I had the help of a very qualified instructor.

After interrupted flights, airport delays, and a crazy airline schedule, I returned home and repacked for a quick trip to Mount Norquay for the Canadian Cowboy Downhill Ski Race. This entertaining event required rodeo competitors, royalty and family members to race through a slalom course and compete in a Stampede Ski Race with hopes of winning the coveted title of the Champion. Not only did the ski race allow the rodeo family to once again have a fun get together, but it also raised funds for the Canadian Pro Rodeo Sports Medicine Team and the Ty Pozzobon Foundation. Both of these organizations focus on the health and safety of our rodeo athletes and I was honoured to be a part of this fundraising event while having an amazing time.

Now that my Montana Silversmith crown has had a few trips to the United States, it is now time to head to a Canadian rodeo. See you at the Medicine Hat Broncs and Honky Tonks Spring Rodeo!

Brittney Chomistek
Miss Rodeo Canada 2018
Website: MissRodeoCanada.ca

February, 2018

February was filled with outdoor winter activities, wedding dresses, sand, alligators and rodeo!

The month started off with fresh air and an outdoor activity. Despite the cold temperatures, I was very pleased join the crowd of on February 2 to celebrate Groundhog day at the Blue Grass Nursery and Garden Center, South of Airdrie. Here I witnessed first-hand as Balzac Billy emerged from his burrow and predicted an early spring for Albertans.

The next day I was off to Red Deer to model some amazing wedding dresses at the 14th Annual “With this Ring” Spring Bridal Gala. It so was enjoyable to watch many brides-to-be plan their exciting day shopping for dresses, accessories, facilities and honeymoons. The spectacular dresses I wore were perfectly accessorized with my pewter Stetson boots and cream Smithbilt hat!

Skijor is a unique western winter activity featuring cowboys, horses, a skier, and a whole lot of speed. A crowd of enthusiastic spectators braved the winter conditions wearing fur, leather and fringe to cheer on their favourite competitors at the Calgary Polo Club. I was thrilled to carry the Canadian flag in front of the giant Smithbilt Hat parade float at the 2nd Annual Canadian Skijor competition. Be sure to check out their Facebook page where you will see photos of a few familiar rodeo faces who were both participants and spectators at the event.

After getting stuck in the snow (twice) in Katy Lucas’s yard, I hopped on a plane, left the frigid Canadian weather behind and headed to the sunny state of Florida for the Silver Spurs Rodeo! On this trip, I was treated to true Southern hospitality by my host family and reunited with Keri Sheffield, Miss Rodeo America. Together, with over 20 other visiting rodeo royalty, we visited numerous schools educating children on the sport of rodeo, explored the everglades on an air boat, relaxed on the beach, and got acquainted with some of the local wildlife at Gatorland!

One of the highlights of my trip was the Silver Spurs Special Rodeo. Here I was teamed up with an amazing young lady, named Jordan, who I helped coach through numerous adapted rodeo events. Jordan and I shared many laughs and memorable moments together. After a bit of encouragement, I was even able to persuade her to sit on a horse with me. Then it was off to the Silver Spurs Professional Rodeo in Kissimmee – The largest rodeo East of the Mississippi! I represented the Canadian Professional Rodeo Association at the three performances and thoroughly enjoyed this well run rodeo. But all great things must come to an end and after a quick trip to Disney World, I returned home to Medicine Hat and was once again greeted to a minus 41-degree wind chill and a winter weather warning.

As a student in the Elementary Education program at Medicine Hat College, bullying is something that I take very serious. Unfortunately bullying has become a common occurrence for all ages in schools, at the workplace and over the internet. On February 28, I joined forces with ATB Financial and I proudly wore an ATB pink shirt to show my support for ending bullying and promoting positive healthy relationships. On this day, I visited some elementary school children, who made a pledge with me, to help “Lead the Charge against Bullying!” I hope the open discussions today, regarding the issues of bullying, will help create a safe environment for all children in the future.

As Miss Rodeo Canada, I am so fortunate to have some of the most amazing sponsors. Throughout my year you will see me all decked out wearing the latest fashions from Roper, Stetson, Tin Haul, Wrangler, Lammle’s, Smithbilt Hats, Prairie Wolf, and Montana Silversmiths. This month a large package arrived for me from Montana Silversmiths filled to the top with velvet royal blue boxes containing the latest jewellery styles in bright silver, rose gold, gun metal and natural stones. This company has been a very strong supporter of the Miss Rodeo Canada program for many years. Not only does Montana Silversmiths provide my uniquely designed crown and trophy buckle, but they also supply all my gorgeous jewelry that you will see me wear throughout my year.

For a complete listing of all the generous Sponsors who have made the Miss Rodeo Canada program a success, please visit our newly constructed and interactive Website at www.missrodeocanada.ca.

Brittney Chomistek
Miss Rodeo Canada 2018
Website: MissRodeoCanada.ca

January 2018

January is a time for resolutions, new beginnings and the 2018 Rodeo Season!

My first rodeo of the year as Miss Rodeo Canada was the National Western Stock Show and Rodeo in Denver, Colorado. I was very proud to carry the Canadian flag in the arena beside Keri Sheffield, Miss Rodeo America and Alex Hyland, Miss Rodeo Colorado. Although I wasn’t there on the nights he rode, I was excited to hear that Zeke Thurston, the 2017 World Saddle Bronc Champion from Big Valley Alberta, took home the top spot at this rodeo.

While in Denver, I also had an opportunity to visit with a few of the major Miss Rodeo Canada program sponsors including Roper, Stetson, Tin Haul, Wrangler and Montana Silversmith at the western sales market. I was also able to get a sneak peek at all the new styles for next year and I can’t wait to see many of them at my local Lammle’s store. While visiting the Montana Silversmith booth and admiring all the gorgeous jewelry, Don Johansen and Judy Wagner presented me with the most beautiful, personalized, Miss Rodeo Canada Buckle that is custom designed by Montana Silversmith each year. The next time you see me, be sure to look at it!

This month I also had the opportunity to participate in the 44th Annual Steamboat Cowboy Downhill Challenge. If you have never heard of this event, check it out on YouTube – I guarantee you will be entertained! The day featured over 100 cowboys and rodeo queens wearing chaps and cowboy hats, competing in a unique and wild ski race consisting of a dual slalom, jump, roping challenge and saddling a horse in record time. The day concluded with all the competitors racing down the hill and over a jump at the same time! The last time I was on a snow board was in grade 6, so as you can imagine, my greatest accomplishment of the day was completing the course in one piece!

I would like to thank the National Western Stock Show Committee and Steamboat Cowboy Downhill Organizers for making me feel so welcome. 2018 started off great in Colorado and I can’t wait to see what the rest of the year brings. Happy New Year’s everyone!

Brittney Chomistek
Miss Rodeo Canada 2018
Website: MissRodeoCanada.ca

December 2017

December was an exciting month, filled with neon lights, glitz, sequins and most importantly, watching 9 Canadian cowboys represent our country at the Wrangler National Finals Rodeo in Las Vegas!

I arrived in Vegas one week early with multiple suitcases, ready to attend all the Miss Rodeo America Pageant Events. I have to say, it was much more relaxing being an observer of a pageant than a contestant! The competition was very strong and I am pleased to congratulate Keri Sheffield, Miss Rodeo Florida, who rose to the top as the newly crowned Miss Rodeo America. I enjoyed getting to know Keri at many of the WNFR and sponsor events - and I can’t wait to meet up with her again in January.

Nothing can compare to the Canadian pride I felt each night, as the announcer introduced Zeke Thurston carrying our national flag into the arena and leading our Canadian contingency in the grand entry. These nine athletes were ranked amongst the top 15 cowboys in the World in each of their events, and the Canadian fans waved their flags with enthusiasm when our cowboys competed! December also celebrated a National Day of the Horse, which I thought was very appropriate as Virgil, the amazing Canadian grey horse owned by C5 Rodeo, was recognized as the 2017 PRCA Bareback Horse of the Year!

Throughout the WNFR, Emma Deicke Miss Rodeo Australia, and I were involved in many promotional activities. We helped host the MGM Hotel and Casino’s Gold Buckle Viewing Theatre during rodeo performances, presented Montana Silversmith Go-Round Buckles at South Point each night, and signed hundreds of autograph sheets at the Roper, Wrangler, Stetson and Montana Silversmiths tradeshow booths. I loved the opportunity to meet with many rodeo fans, while promoting a few of the Miss Rodeo Canada program sponsors. My travels throughout the year would not be possible without the generosity of these major supporters. Be sure to follow the Miss Rodeo Canada Facebook page to see posts featuring these and other MRC donors.

After returning home from the WNFR, I was able to enjoy a relaxing Christmas in Medicine Hat surrounded by loved ones and wonderful friends. I am so grateful for everyone who helped make 2017 such an amazing year for me and I wish everyone the very best in the next year. I can’t wait to see what 2018 brings!

Brittney Chomistek
Miss Rodeo Canada 2018
Website: MissRodeoCanada.ca

November-December 2017

The 2017 Canadian Finals Rodeo is an event I will never forget.

I am Brittney Chomistek - the newly crowned Miss Rodeo Canada 2018 and I am so grateful to have been given the opportunity to represent the Canadian Professional Rodeo Association for the next year.

I would like to begin by thanking the Medicine Hat Exhibition and Stampede for allowing me the experience and opportunity to represent such a great organization during the Miss Rodeo Canada Competition. It was an honour to once again wear your crown and banner for the pageant in Edmonton.

The MRC Competition leading up to the Canadian Finals Rodeo was a whirlwind of activities as we were judged on horsemanship, public speaking, rodeo exam, personal interviews and modeling. The week was filled with many special memories and wonderful friendships. Emily, Kyla, Michele, and Caylee... I enjoyed getting to know each of you a bit better and I had so much fun with all of you at the same time.

November was a month consisting of many endings and new beginnings. On November 10, 2017, I walked in to the Northland’s Coliseum representing the Medicine Hat Exhibition and Stampede for the last time. That night, at the Friday rodeo performance, I was fortunate to have been crowned Miss Rodeo Canada 2018 and I am so excited about this new beginning. The 44th Canadian Finals Rodeo was quite emotional as it was the end of an era, with Championship Sunday being the final CFR performance ever to be hosted at Northlands Colliseum in Edmonton. During the closing ceremony, past rodeo competitors and champions were invited into the arena to join the celebration as 13 Canadian Champions were introduced at the Coliseum for the final time. Even though this tradition ended, I am looking forward to seeing where our 45th Canadian Finals will be hosted in 2018.

Congratulations to our 2017 Canadian Professional Rodeo Champions!
Seth Hardwick - Bareback Riding
Layton Green – Saddle Bronc Riding
Garrett Smith – Bull Riding
Jason Thomas – Steer Wrestling
Logan Bird – Tie-Down Roping
Levi Simpson – Team Roping Header
Jeremy Buhler – Team Roping Heeler
Carman Pozzobon – Ladies Barrel Racing
Ky Marshall – All Around Cowboy
Morgan Grant – High Point
Connor Hamilton – Novice Bareback
Dawson Hay – Novice Saddle Bronc
Luke Ferber – Boys Steer Riding

Once the reality of my exciting week set in, I was able to meet with a few of my sponsors including Aria Studios, Roper Stetson Tinhaul, Wrangler and Smithbilt Hats to prepare for my first official trip in December. Thank you very much to the many sponsors who have generously supported the Miss Rodeo Canada pageant and title. For a complete listing of all Miss Rodeo Canada donors please visit MissRodeoCanada.ca

Brittney Chomistek
Miss Rodeo Canada
Website: MissRodeoCanada.ca