Local cowgirl heads to nationals

Times Reporter   

 

Strathmore cowgirl Destiny Stevens, 14, is off to Des Moines, Iowa to compete in the National Junior High Final Rodeo June 22-28 for breakaway and ribbon roping. There will be approximately 1,000 contestants coming from five provinces, 42 states and Australia. The NJHFR is the largest junior high rodeo, and in addition to competing for  $75,000 in prizes, contestants will also be trying for a shot at a scholarship, and the chance to be named the NJHFR Champion. 

This year marks the third consecutive year that Stevens has qualified, having placed in the top four in provincials.

“It’s kind of nerve wracking. In my event that I am competing in there is over 250 kids in it,” said Stevens. 

“It is an elite group of kids, it is very good rodeo because these kids are all very good,” said mom Crystal.

Stevens competes in barrels, poles, break away, team roping, goat tying and ribbon roping, but only qualified for the two.  

“I’m hoping I will do a little better than the past two years. I have been practicing quite a bit,” said Stevens.

“The past years were just kind of for experience.”

Coming from a family well into the rodeo world, it was a natural progression for the youngest Stevens to get involved. She has developed a passion for her particular events and is excited to continue to compete at such a high level. She loves the competition and the thrill of competing against friends, some of whom will be making the trip to Iowa with her. 

Along with the competition there is also the chance for the participants to get out and make new friends from around the world. NHJFR contestants will be able enjoy shooting sports, volleyball, tug-of-war, dances, church services and shopping. 

“You get to meet new people while you’re doing something else, not just rodeo,” said Stevens, who also enjoys that part of nationals. 

To keep track of how Stevens is doing visit www.NHSRA.org daily for results.