Stampede Royalty bring instant chemistry to roles
Though several days have passed since Shaylyn Hunt was crowned Medicine Hat Exhibition & Stampede’s 2022 Rodeo Queen, the 20-year-old Medicine Hat native still feels disbelief over her new role.
“It’s sort of surreal,” Hunt told the News. “Going into the competition, you obviously hope for the best ... but you never know how other people perceive you and what you’ve done throughout the competition. So it was nice to see and hear my name and know what I had done had paid off.”
Hunt was one of three contestants in the Stampede’s annual Rodeo Royalty competition, which ran July 13-16. Throughout the week, several independent judging panels observed and evaluated contestants’ skill with public speaking, horsemanship, grace, ease of interactions and more. Judges then provided feedback to help determine who is best suited for royalty.
Though challenging, Hunt feels the competition helped her both prepare for her new role and bond with her royal counterpart, Rodeo Princess Kearra Borthwick.
“I don’t really feel nervous for anything anymore,” she said. “I think the competition helps get all your nerves out ... because you know who you’re going into the year with and you get along with. And someone you’ll hopefully come out with as a best friend.”
Borthwick agrees with Hunt, believing their strength lies in their ability to support each other, something they have already put to practice.
“Shay and I just met but we instantly clicked and became really good friends,” Borthwick said. “Throughout the year, we can relax each other’s nerves if there are any. And we (know) the Medicine Hat Exhibition & Stampede has our backs, and the Royalty Committee as well. So, if we have any nervousness at all, they will be there to comfort us.” Though Hunt and
Borthwick have many similarities — Borthwick is also 20 from Medicine Hat and an avid horse rider — the two had never met prior to the competition. However, their chemistry is apparent, as they reflect on their Stampede experience.
Throughout the next year, the pair will work simultaneously as they take part in rodeo events, community improvement efforts and public appearances, both locally and across the province.
In terms of what Hunt and Borthwick are most looking forward to, community interaction ranks high, as does the desire to share a passion for Western culture, sport and agriculture.
“It’s a real honour to represent an industry we’re both so passionate about,” Hunt said. “And going into the year with that mindset is something super special. So, I’m excited for the year. It’s always been a dream.
“When I was around 13, I wrote my first 4-H speech on wanting to be a rodeo queen. And now that it happened, it’s kind of a full-circle moment. It’s pretty amazing.”