Entry Information

2025 Pageant Entry Information

An affiliate of Miss Rodeo America, Inc., the state Miss Rodeo Iowa Pageant is held annually the last weekend in August in Fort Madison, Iowa. Contestants must be comfortable meeting new people, relaxed speaking to individuals as well as large crowds and be skilled and knowledgeable horsewomen.Contestants are judged in three main areas - Appearance, Horsemanship and Personality. Judges observe the contestants as they demonstrate their horsemanship skills by riding two patterns (one on a horse she is unfamiliar with) presenting a flag and making a queen's run; their speaking skills with the presentation of a prepared speech and the answering of impromptu questions; the knowledge with personality and horsemanship interviews; and their inner and outer beauty at all times. Upon selection as Miss Rodeo Iowa the titleholder spends the months leading up to the beginning of her reign as a "Lady in Waiting" during which time she sets her upcoming schedule, secures sponsors and attends the Miss Rodeo America Pageant to support the reigning titleholder and to prepare for her own competition. Once her reign begins, Miss Rodeo Iowa travels the state and the nation to promote Iowa's rich western heritage and proud agricultural roots.

Entries are CLOSED for 2025
2025 pageant packets are typically available April 1st, please contact Hannah Barnes if you would like one

Miss Rodeo Iowa Entry Qualifications

In order to become a contestant in the Miss Rodeo Iowa division, a potential entrant must meet the following guidelines:

I will be 21 years of age by November 1, 2025 and I will be no older than 26 years of age by December 31, 2025. Upon request, I will provide a copy of a government issued identification (such as a birth certificate, driver’s license, passport, etc.) verifying my age.
Must not have been previously married and/or pregnant, nor shall she marry or become pregnant during her reign
Be a legal resident of Iowa
May not have had any title revoked or entry denied in any other pageant program
Must agree to duly prepare for and represent Miss Rodeo Iowa as a contestant in the Miss Rodeo America Pageant
Not have represented any other state as a state Miss Rodeo affiliated with Miss Rodeo America, Inc.
Other entry qualifications may be set forth in the Official Rules and Regulations as determined by the Miss Rodeo Iowa Board of Directors

Miss Teen Rodeo Iowa Entry Qualifications

Contestants must be at least 14 and not older than 18 on January 1 of this year.
Must not have been previously married and/or pregnant, nor shall she marry or become pregnant during her reign
Be a legal resident of Iowa
May not have had any title revoked or entry denied in any other pageant program
Other entry qualifications may be set forth in the Official Rules and Regulations as determined by the Miss Rodeo Iowa Board of Directors

Frequently Asked Questions

How long do the titleholders reign?

Titleholders officially begin their reigns on January 1 following their selection in September and complete their reigns on December 31. Miss Rodeo Iowa competes for the prestigious title of Miss Rodeo America which is held in conjunction to the Wrangler National Finals Rodeo. The time period between the pageant in September and January 1st is known as the "Lady in Waiting" period. During this time the titleholders have publicity photos taken, begin securing sponsorships and may make limited appearances as approved by the Board of Directors.

Is it expensive to be a titleholder?

It can be but with proper planning expenses can be kept to a minimum. Miss Rodeo Iowa works with her National Director to determine her goals and to develop a budget for her expenses. A variety of fundraisers are held to help offset most, if not all, of her expenses. The largest fundraiser is the Coronation Celebration planned for the titleholders hometown. This event generally includes a meal, live and silent auctions and a dance and will raise the majority of funds to cover her expenses. Other sponsorships such as clothing, boots, hats and such will also be secured during her reign. The duties of Miss Teen Rodeo Iowa and Miss Jr. Rodeo Iowa require less travel and a much smaller wardrobe so their expenses are kept to a minimum. The Teen titleholder also hosts a Coronation Celebration in her hometown. Worries about finances should not keep a potential contestant from entering the pageant.

If I earn the title of Miss Rodeo Iowa, will I need to take time off from college?

Although recommended for the fall semester, it is not a requirement. Your education is important and it may be necessary for you to enroll in the fall semester to keep scholarship eligibility and to meet graduation requirements. If you do need to take classes in the fall it is recommend taking the lightest load possible and being upfront with your instructors about your duties and activities at the beginning of the semester.

Is it necessary to rodeo in order to hold a title?

Not at all! Many young women have held the title (and that of Miss Rodeo America as well) and have never competed in a rodeo. Many times they have a horse show background and have enjoyed rodeo as a spectator. They enjoy the sport and wish to see the traditions and values of the Western lifestyle maintained for future generations.

Do I need to own my own horse?

It is preferred, but more importantly you must be a skilled and confident rider and the horse you use during your reign must be safe and accustomed to the sights and activities of a rodeo arena and other events in which being horseback is required.