Applications are about to open for Cochrane's next Lions Rodeo Queen. 

Monique Richardson, coordinator for the Cochrane Lions Rodeo Queen Committee said there are a few major components they look for each year. 

"There is public speaking, it's of course a big one, we do a lot of public events where we welcome crowds, so public speaking is a big part of our competition. Horsemanship of course as well, so we'll do a lot of parades, grand entries, like the Calgary Stampede, Medicine Hat and Cochrane of course. We do travel around in the summer a lot to go do that."  

Mixing and mingling and a written knowledge exam is also involved in the competition. 

Richardson said the Rodeo Queen role provides a great opportunity. 

"We try to do a lot of community events, just really getting in touch with the community. Talking about rodeo, the town of Cochrane, trying to bring some of that to a lot of the events. A big part of it is also representing the Lions, they do some phenomenal work here in town and it's a really great organization for us to get to represent on a bigger stage."   

They typically have between three to six young women compete for the role. 

Kyla Lightfoot has been representing the club for nearly a year, she was able to ride her childhood horse in the Calgary Stampede Parade on July 7.

The new Queen will be crowned at the Cochrane Lions Rodeo on the Labour Day long weekend.

You can find more information and apply HERE.