San Marcial youth earns Miss Rodeo NM Princess

At eleven and a half years old, Westie Trujillo of San Marcial earned the title of Miss Rodeo New Mexico Princess for 2025. Despite her young age she is known for her work ethic on local ranches in Socorro and Magdalena. Westie is the eldest child of Destri and West Trujillo, who have instilled in her a deep appreciation for tradition and hard work. Her achievements reflect not only her talent but also the support of her family and ranch.

“I live on a ranch, and I wanted to show that even being a ranch girl, that you can run for something big, like Miss Rodeo New Mexico Princess, and that you don’t have to have $100,000 horse,” Westie said, “I just ride a good old ranch horse named Marshmallow.”

The competition held in Ruidoso on October 18 and 19 was no easy feat. It consisted of two interviews, a horsemanship interview and a personality Interview. On stage, contestants had to answer three impromptu questions, present a memorized speech, and show two modeling outfits: Western fashion-forward and formal wear. Contestants were also given a horsemanship and written test.

“My very favorite part was horsemanship,” Westie said, “With horsemanship, they give you a set pattern, and then you have to ride it, and then they’ll have you run around the arena. You get to choose a speed, and you are supposed to go fast, but you don’t have to. But I love going fast.” Westie said.

Marshmallow, a seven-year-old mare, who served as her faithful partner, is a working horse, born on the ranch that Westie’s father broke for her. The bond between Westie and her horse goes all the way back before Marshmallow was born. At three years old Westie learned to ride on Marshmallow’s father Booger.

“She’s a really good ranch horse. You can trust her with anything,” Westie said.

When it came to the speech portion, Westie said it was her biggest challenge because she was nervous about speaking in front of a big crowd.

“When I think about it, I’m like, wow, I wasn’t half as nervous as I thought I was going to be,” Westie said, “I learned that it’s fun to get to talk to people, and it’s fun getting to meet other people and meet other girls that are also running,”

Don’t underestimate a ranch girl; Westie doesn’t hesitate to dream big.

“I want to run for Miss Rodeo America eventually,” Westie said.

Until then, Westie said she is excited about her year as Miss Rodeo New Mexico Princess. Her schedule includes volunteering and making appearances at rodeos.

A Girl's love for her cowboy dad

Westie Trujillo's speech:

My name is Westie. I’m named after my dad West. My dad is a cowboy.

When your dad is a cowboy You grow up a little different. First things first you wake up early, so not to waste any daylight. Animals always eat before you do. Wind, rain or snow your animals always come first, you learn to care for and treat the sick ones and unfortunately sometimes you learn about life and death.

When your dad is a cowboy, you learn how to ride horses and swing rope. You go on long cattle drives, work on trucks, and waters and fix a lot of fences. You learn quick that if you forget to pack a snack, you might starve because he never stops for lunch.

When your dad is a cowboy, you learn that there is no time to cry so you better get tough. You learn manners, you say ma’am, and sir, and please and thank you. You hold open doors mind your elders, close the gate and never climb on it!

When your dad is a cowboy, you’re around other cowboys they’re usually dirty. They spit and use choice words while working cows that mom wouldn’t approve of but they also tell the best stories about wild cattle and bucking horses.

When your dad is a cowboy, you put your faith in God, you pray for rain,and thank Him for the food on your table,you learn that God comes first and then family. You learn that when you get home you dust off your boots, wash your hands and hug your mama.

When your dad is a cowboy, he holds your hands with rough hands , and he hugs you with strong arms, he will ride the buck out of a horse for you and he will buy you a new dog.

When your dad is a cowboy he lets you drive his truck, he will let you stay up late to watch your favorite show and he will sneak you cookies when mom isn’t watching. when your dad is a cowboy, you grow up a little different.

I love my cowboy dad.