Prep for the fair & rodeo royalty contest underway

Friday, July 25, is the last day to apply for this year’s Socorro County Fair and Rodeo Royalty Contest.

Contestants will work with Sonja Gerard and her daughter, Jamie Gerard, who took the reins of the Queen, Princess, and Sweetheart contests last year, in preparation for the August 23 competition date, and the August 29 crowning before the County Fair rodeo.

Once their application has been submitted, contestants will begin a month-long journey of training and workshops. While many county royalty contests simply host a pageant, Sonja and Jamie go a step further. They volunteer their time for training sessions multiple times a week.

“Not everyone does this much,” Sonja said, “but we want these girls to be safe, confident, and prepared. When I was young, I had people help me, and I’ve just always wanted to give back. I love kids and I love horses — it’s that simple.”

The royalty competition is divided into two categories: Fair and Rodeo. Each holds its own set of expectations and skill sets, ultimately crowning a Queen, Princess, and Sweetheart.

On the rodeo side, contestants participate in horsemanship competitions including riding a set pattern, a two-minute freestyle ride, an interview, and modeling. The modeling segment focuses on poise and presentation. Western hats and boots are required, but contestants are encouraged to express personal style within those guidelines.

“It’s about professionalism,” Sonja said. “We’re looking for girls who show up prepared and polished for the job they’re presenting.”

Meanwhile, the fair side centers around demonstration skills. Contestants present a project — anything from cake decorating to livestock care — that’s entered into the county fair. Props, displays, and public speaking are essential.

There are over 200 4-H projects to choose from, but contestants don’t have to be in 4-H or FFA to compete; they just need a fair entry.

Sonja Gerard has spent over 30 years involved in 4-H, particularly as a horse project leader. Her daughters grew up riding horses and participating in pageants, and she mentored numerous young women who have gone on to win titles like Miss Rodeo New Mexico and even national crowns.

Jamie, now a professional working in Los Alamos, travels regularly to help with clinics, workshops, and preparation for the contest. Together, the two ensure that girls are equipped for success.

“Good horsemanship is good horsemanship,” Sonja said. “But that’s only one piece. The ability to speak in public, to interview well, to present yourself with confidence — these girls learn all that here.”

Application packets can be downloaded from the “Socorro Co. Fair and Rodeo Royalty Pageant” group on Facebook.