ELGIN — After being crowned Oregon High School Rodeo Queen last week, Dayville’s Rowdy Israel is hoping to represent Grant County July 6-9 at the Elgin Stampede as she looks to be named queen of the stampede.

Israel, 16, said that in addition to representing the county, she also wants to honor the memory of former Elgin Stampede President Ty Hallgarth, who died earlier this year. She said Hallgarth, who had been president of the Elgin rodeo for five years, was a friend and supporter.

On the back of a horse as far back as she can remember, Israel told the Eagle that most weekends, she is gone riding horses and competing in rodeos. Her events are breakaway roping, goat tying and pole bending. Israel said she tried out for the Elgin Stampede rodeo queen nomination in August and has been competing for the crown since May.

Israel is one of three contestants vying for the Stampede Queen title. The Elgin Stampede judges evaluate candidates in three categories: horsemanship, public speaking and ticket sales. Each candidate must perform a riding pattern, give a speech and sell tickets to the Stampede. The categories are scored individually.

Having been named Little Miss Grant County in 2014 and Little Miss National Professional Rodeo in 2017, Israel said she has always been proud to represent Grant County.

With aspirations of one day being crowned Miss Rodeo America, Israel said she always hopes to have the county’s support behind her.

“I’ve been representing Grant County for quite some time now,” she said. “Dayville is my home, so I am part of the county.”

The 75th annual Elgin Stampede Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association Rodeo will feature four days of entertainment and activities, including a parade and dance.

The coronation is Thursday, July 7. Those looking to throw their support behind Israel can purchase tickets from her by calling 541-620-3272.

This story has been updated to reflect that Rowdy Israel was named Oregon High School Rodeo Queen last week in Prineville.