Amid the electrifying atmosphere of the 2023 Wrangler National Finals Rodeo in Las Vegas, another unique spectacle also unfolds with a delicate blend of grace and poise — the annual crowning of Miss Rodeo America. The young ladies who compete in the Miss Rodeo America contest embody elegance, grit, and grace. In this exclusive interview, we delve into the day-to-day of Deborah Dilley, a board member who oversees the care of each Miss Rodeo America contestant.
With over 30 years of dedication to Miss Rodeo America, Dilley serves as one of eight chaperon for the contestants, also orchestrating their seamless movement from one point to another. Their work alleviates the stress on contestants, allowing them to focus on their competition.
“We watch our watches and make sure that they’re where they need to be, so they can concentrate on doing the very best that they can to be Miss Rodeo America,” said Dilley, who has mastered the art of ensuring the safety, punctuality, and readiness of the participants in her tenure as a chaperon.
Dilley emphasizes that while the crown may only go to one, every participant undergoes a life-changing journey and feels the transformative impact of the Miss Rodeo America experience. These young ladies, reigning in their states for a year, gather invaluable experiences and contacts, making the pageant a crucial confidence-building opportunity.
When asked about her enduring commitment to Miss Rodeo America, she highlights the sense of family within the organization. Volunteers, numbering in the hundreds, come together twice a year, forming bonds that extend beyond the competition. The camaraderie and shared passion for rodeo create a familial atmosphere that keeps Dilley coming back.
At this year’s Miss Rodeo America contest, they crowned Emma Cameron from New Mexico. The competition showcased the embodiment of elegance, resilience, and leadership, and Cameron emerged victorious in this spirited display of rodeo excellence.
Every year, Miss Rodeo America embarks on a remarkable journey, traveling some 100,000 miles during her reign. This involves appearances at nearly 100 rodeo performances, as well as visits to schools, civic groups, and other special events. Beyond the glitz and glamour of the stage, the reigning Miss Rodeo America becomes an ambassador for the rodeo world, representing the spirit of the cowgirl and the enduring traditions of the American West.
