Happy for the opportunity

Shannon LeClair

Times Reporter

 

Though she wasn’t crowned, Jessica Williams from Arrowwood was still full of smiles from having had the opportunity to compete for a crown. Williams took part in the 2012 Calgary Stampede queen and princess competition, and had made it as one of the top six finalists. 

“Just being a part of it in general is just amazing. All the things we got to do, and all the people we got to meet. Even just this part was life changing I’d say,” said Williams, after the royal trio was announced on Oct 2. 

Williams, 20, always knew she would end up competing some day.  

“Growing up on a farm and always being with horses has just always been a dream. So it wasn’t a matter of if I was going to enter, it was when. I always knew I was going to try anyway,” said Williams. 

“I had no idea what to expect. I thought I would just enter and see where that takes me.”

Williams said one of the most valuable lessons she has learned from taking part in the process was to be herself. 

The toughest thing of the whole competition was her first speaking competition, which she said was because it was the first time being in front of the judges, and all of the other girls competing were there. She said she found it a little nerve wracking.  

The girls were kept busy nearly every day with riding competitions, formal dinners, speeches and other ‘royalty’ preparation events.

The competition may be over but Williams already has her sights set on being crowned next year. For now though she is happy to have a bit of a break.