“It’s the most wonderful time of the year”.

This is truly how the whole month of December felt for me - not just because of Christmas, but because I was able to travel and experience the Wrangler National Finals Rodeo in Arlington, Texas.

It seems crazy to say, but closing off 2020 the WNFR was my 3rd and last rodeo of the year! Miss Rodeo Canada usually travels to 400+ events during her reign. Of course things looked a little bit different with less fans, masks, social distancing, and precautionary measures. But rodeo is rodeo, and the atmosphere of the most prestigious event of the year did not lessen because of it.

I sat beside my ATB Financial teammate, and 2X World Champion Saddle Bronc Rider, Zeke Thurston on the way there, and saw many familiar Canadian stock contractors on our flight as well! As soon as wheels hit the ground, I was off and running to my first event. Randy Taylor who usually hosts the viewing party at the MGM GRAND, picked me up and we headed to the Pro Rodeo Hall of Fame Fundraiser Gala.

The next day I had to get a Covid test to receive my accreditation for the rodeo, and never would I have thought I would have to experience something like that! I explored the Globe Life Field grounds with Miss Rodeo America, and we found my Dopple Wrangler! That evening I attended the Welcoming ceremony for the contestants, and showed my support for the five Canadians we had competing (TRH - Kolton Schmindt, TRH - Levi Simpson, SB - Zeke Thurston, BB - Orin Larsen, SW - Curtis Cassidy).

Every morning for two weeks I was up at 5:30 AM, helping with mutton bustin’s, junior rodeos, meeting up with fellow Canadians, carrying flags on horseback, cheering our Canadians on at the rodeo, and being on stage for the buckle presentations. They were still able to hold Cowboy Christmas where I had autograph signings at the Montana Silversmiths booth. I didn’t hit the pillow until 2:00 AM each night, and I wouldn’t change a single thing.

I was able to see 2015 MRC, Katy Lucas’, place of work at the Cowboy Channel, where I had two separate interviews. I toured the famous Ft. Worth Stockyards, sang some Hank Williams JR. on Live with Lucia, watched every performance of the WNFR, experienced the inaugural WNFR Breakaway, and sang under the lights of Globe Life Field.

The connections that I have made, and the friendships that were created are something that I will treasure for a lifetime. The best part of it all is that I carry on this title for another year, and not a single moment is going to be taken for granted.

As soon as I got back to Canada, I went straight to work on an article for Canadian Cowboy Magazine that I can’t wait to share with you all. Make sure you keep an eye out for the next edition.

In closing this year, I am very thankful to have been Miss Rodeo Canada 2020, this year was not a burden to me - but a blessing. Bring on the challenges 2021, when I start something I see it through to the end!

Alicia Erickson
Miss Rodeo Canada 2020-21
www.missrodeocanada.ca

* click images to enlarge

The women’s breakaway event has flourished, and it's amazing to see what these talented competitors are capable of with a rope in their hand.

On October 3rd the second annual Canadian Finals Breakaway Champion was crowned, Bailey Hines of Marwayne AB. It was a day of good watching, and sportsmanship shown by each cowgirl under the Claresholm Agriplex roof. Thank you to Craig and Margo Fitzpatrick for inviting me, it's always amazing to see the individuals who come together in order to make these types of events happen - especially this year.

I kept rolling on later in the month with my Innisfail Chrysler Truck, to participate in the grand opening of the Delburne ATB Financial. Kelly Mackenzie and I safely welcomed customers into the business, and they even had customized ATB cookies to enjoy. Make sure to stop by the new branch on main street if you are in the area.

A year has now passed since the 2020 MRC competition, and although we are not able to crown a new first lady this fall, it sure is great to reminisce on the memories of past pageants. Make sure to check out our social media pages for MRC Competition Throwbacks!

~ Of course, I am looking forward to making new memories in the upcoming year, and am “holding onto the reins” in hope that the future brings some light at the end of the tunnel.

There is only one month before the National Finals Rodeo in Arlington, TX. Make sure to show our six Canadian athletes your support as they all have that gold buckle dream waiting for them!

Happy Trails!

Alicia Erickson
Miss Rodeo Canada 2020
www.missrodeocanada.ca

* click images to enlarge

It seems strange to say that September has been the busiest month of my year so far, but boy am I sure grateful for the events that I have been privileged to attend.

Earlier this month I loaded my RAM truck full of wranglers, closed my trailer door, and travelled to Innisfail for a weekend of fun. Innisfail Chrysler held a BBQ tailgate party where we swung ropes, signed autographs, and introduced loyal customers to the newest model with the most horsepower - my own horses! We even rode right into the dealership; Manager Corey was on cleanup! Shortly after I drove over to the Daines Rodeo Ranch for the Lockdown at the Ranch. Though we couldn’t have any fans in the audience, it sure was awesome to watch and catch up with many of the athletes that I’ve been missing all year, it sure is one big “rodeo family”. Former Miss Rodeo Canada, Gillian (Shields) Grant, and her family did an outstanding job running this event, thank you for allowing me to be a part of it.

Later into the month, and further south, I drove to the home of the world's ONLY Bavarian rodeo, produced by C5 Rodeo, Oldstoberfest. Although they couldn’t host the actual rodeo, that didn’t stop the committee or the Town of Olds from spreading the Bavarian spirit. I enjoyed thanking local businesses for their continuous support, delivering meals in the fields, and gifting the Olds Library with Cowboy Cody books.

The Hanna Indoor Pro Rodeo is usually the last Canadian Professional Rodeo for athletes to vie for one last pay cheque, which can either make or break qualifying for the Canadian Finals Rodeo. Not having an event couldn’t put a halt on their rodeo spirit either, as the committee chose to celebrate rodeo week with a parade, market, food trucks, and wagon rides.

I am so thankful for these events, to continue sharing rodeo’s story, and spreading the goodness that our western culture has to offer.

As the PRCA rodeos have come to a close for the 2020 season, five Canadians have secured their spot for the Wrangler National Finals Rodeo in Arlington Texas. Congratulations to Orin Larsen (BB), Curtis Cassidy (SW), Kolton Schmidt (TR Header), Levi Simpson (TR Header), and Zeke Thurston (SB)! You will be able to support our Canadian athletes, and watch the National Finals Rodeo at home by subscribing to the Cowboy Channel, at www.thecowboychannel.com

Happy Trails!

Alicia Erickson
Miss Rodeo Canada 2020
www.missrodeocanada.ca

* click images to enlarge

August would have been quite the month of travelling.

All throughout British Columbia, Alberta, and Saskatchewan (to name a few places), my Innisfail Chrysler Dodge would have been hitting the pavement travelling to rodeos far and wide!

What has been amazing about this experience is that our devoted sponsors continue to support the Miss Rodeo Canada organization. Wrangler sent me a package filled with great fashions, and I am so proud to continually wear that premium Wrangler “W” on my jeans. No wardrobe can be complete without having a red pair of boots. When I received a beautiful set of Dan Post Boots in the mail, I couldn’t wait to share them with you!

You can see me wearing these red boots on the road September 4th, heading to Innisfail Chrysler for a fun day of lunch, roping, riding, and the best part is that you are all invited! You can check out the event details on the Miss Rodeo Canada facebook page. Shortly after I will be on my way to the Lockdown at the Ranch, seeing my favourite C5 Rodeo horses buck at the Daines Ranch.

Hard work and determination proves to be paying off for many Canadian rodeo athletes, as they continuously keep showing up on the PRCA results page! Especially for 3rd generation tie-down roper, Ben Robinson who won Rapid City, SD, Tremonton, UT, and Alamosa, CO in one weekend! Please continue to see updates on our Canadian rodeo athletes on the MRC page each Monday, or tune in to 840 CFCW to listen to Tim Ellis’s Rodeo News.

* www.cfcw.com

As the leaves change colour, it always reminds me that the Canadian Finals Rodeo is approaching. Although there is no finals this year, stay tuned for many “CFR Throwbacks” throughout our social media!

Alicia Erickson
Miss Rodeo Canada 2020
www.missrodeocanada.ca

* click images to enlarge

July, 2020 - A month where we celebrate the great country of Canada, staying glorious, strong, and free!

The Ponoka Stampede Grounds is where you could find me on this first of July. Although I wasn’t horse-back and watching the showdown round, it was great to spend the day at my second home. We pulled the winning cattle raffle ticket, celebrated with a prime rib dinner, and ended the night with some fireworks!

Rolling right into July I would usually be attending the LaDue Ladies Luncheon, despite having to postpone their event, the LaDue Ladies still honoured their scholarship program and awarded some talented cowgirls with a scholarly bursary. I was honoured to be a part of the “LaDue Class of 2020”, and will be putting the scholarship towards my Bachelors in Social Work.

* LaDue Ladies Luncheon

My hometown museum in Trochu invited me to do a “meet and greet” to celebrate Stampede week. I met a future rodeo queen, who travelled from Bowden to come and meet me. I am so grateful for the appearances that I am able to make during this time, and thank each and every person that go out of their way to make that connection!

July has been a month of thanks, as ATB Financial donated five-hundred dollars for me to give to a foundation of my choosing. I was happy to do an “instagram takeover” for ATB, where I showed followers a day in the life of Miss Rodeo Canada, travelling to Ponoka to do a seniors home visit on horse-back! I chose to donate this money to the Ty Pozzobon Foundation, which focuses on rodeo athletes mental health, and concussion awareness. Thank you ATB Financial!

* Ty Pozzobon Foundation

On July 24th I stopped in at Innisfail Chrysler to get some general maintenance on my truck, and catch up with the dealership team. Shortly after I was on the road to High River to spend the day back in my C5 Rodeo saddle. Craig Fitzpatrick did the math, and said I must have chased over 300 calves out of the arena that day. There really is no hour of life wasted that’s spent in the saddle.

Our Canadian rodeo athletes have been very successful south of the border, please continue to follow my weekly reports every Monday on our Facebook & Instagram page!

Happy Trails!

Alicia Erickson
Miss Rodeo Canada 2020
www.missrodeocanada.ca

* click images to enlarge

Half of 2020 has now passed, and I can’t wait to walk into the next six months with my Miss Macie Boots!

The Miss Macie Boot Company, and LaDane Smith have been an incredible sponsor throughout the three years that we’ve had the opportunity to work with them. Thank you for being an inspiration to many, and for helping women (all over the world) gain the confidence to stand on their own two feet, and take the road less travelled.

I was so excited to finally visit my favourite hat shop, where I had a beautiful, burgundy SmithBilt waiting for my return! I’ve always been a person who loves the odd challenge, so I was enthusiastic when Brian Hanson asked if I wanted to sing our national anthem on top of their giant hat replica. Much to my surprise it was climbing the ladder that had my knees trembling, and I now know that I will never make a fire fighter.

Though we aren’t seeing much of rodeo in Canada this year, our Canadian athletes are having great success south of the border. I have been following along with their journeys through the ProRodeo.com (PRCA) website, and the live streamed rodeos that the CowboyChannel.com covers. I will continue posting weekend results on the Miss Rodeo Canada Facebook, and MRC Instagram page, so that you can all follow along too!

The cancellation of the 47th Canadian Finals Rodeo was a hard decision for all. But the safety of every person involved in putting on this large event is top priority. Our thoughts are with all of the rodeo athletes, sponsors, personal, and fans that are greatly affected but these tough circumstances.

There are greater things to come in the near future; we are all in this together.

Alicia Erickson
Miss Rodeo Canada 2020
www.missrodeocanada.ca

* click images to enlarge

The May flowers are in full bloom, creating that beautiful Alberta scenery that we’ve all been missing over the past seven months.

Earlier in the month I created a media post where individuals could write me their mailing info, and I would send them a signed picture. I believe I signed around two hundred photos, and loved being able to personalize each one of them. Thank you for letting me spread some cheer.

Many of you ask how I keep myself busy with no rodeos to attend, and let me tell you THIS kept me (and the post office) busy for days!

Keeping me even more busy was the online interviews and podcasts that I had the opportunity to do. Jordan Tierney (Miss Rodeo America 2020) and I have been working on a couple informative videos that I can’t wait to share with you all!

Another reason I love this month is because branding season begins! Brandings are a time to bring family and friends together to celebrate the hard work done throughout calving season. I love having the opportunity to lend a working hand, and to sneak in roping a couple calves as well!

Our official jewelry sponsor, Montana Silversmiths gives Miss Rodeo Canada the opportunity to share “Montana Moments”. I was able to have one of these moments at a branding that I attended. My friend Chesney is such a hard working and determined young girl, and I had been wanting to do something to show her my appreciation. Giving her a customized hat feather was perfect, as the feather symbolizes strength in which I want her to have, to know that she can conquer any future goals, no matter how big or small they may be.

Usually in May I would have attended the Leduc Black Gold Professional Rodeo, and The Grand Prairie Stompede. Under the circumstances that was not an option this year but I am looking forward to being with you all in 2021!

The month of June is looking bright and hopeful, I can’t wait until we can all rodeo again!

Alicia Erickson
Miss Rodeo Canada 2020
www.missrodeocanada.ca

* click images to enlarge

April showers bring May flowers

I think this saying holds a lot of meaning as trying times may lead to beautiful outcomes.

The month of April was a bit different for me, it was challenging - but who doesn’t like a good challenge? Because I cannot currently travel or make face-to-face connections with people, my role as Miss Rodeo Canada changed a little bit. But I can still promote rodeo, our sponsors, and the western way of life by being creative with social media.

Not only did April bring showers, it brought my dream saddle and chaps! Vern McDonald with C5 Rodeo makes it possible for Miss Rodeo Canada to design a saddle that will be cherished for the rest of her life. I spent a lot of the month in the arena, and out in the pasture breaking in my new leather masterpiece.

One of the other hobbies that I enjoy is painting, so I honoured some of our sponsors through hand painted Easter eggs! My Easter was spent with immediate family over some ham and lots of chocolate mini eggs.

Later in the month Terry Andryo with ATB Financial kindly invited me as his guest onto the Dave Kelly Live show, where we discussed the impact that COVID-19 has had on the rural, and rodeo community. I want to thank Terry for acknowledging the great partnership that Miss Rodeo Canada and ATB Financial have. We are so thankful to be a part of Team ATB; they truly support their teammates in every aspect.

The last day of the month was one of my favourites, as I took my two horses and headed into town to the St. Mary’s Hospital. I was able to do a two horse, one queen parade and spread some smiles through the windows and the streets of Trochu. They loved seeing the new chaps that Keena Chausse with Ck Leather generously built for me. It was the first time that I got to show case the bright colours, and fringed details of my personalized, handcrafted chaps. Thank you to the health-care workers who made it safe to create this great experience.

* I’m looking forward to May flowers

Alicia Erickson
Miss Rodeo Canada 2020
www.missrodeocanada.ca

* click images to enlarge

I remember the first time I spoke my name into a microphone, it scared me to hear the sound of my own voice. Seventeen years later I would have never guessed that I would be singing the Canadian National Anthem in front of thousands of people.

On March 6th I spent some time in my Innisfail Chrysler truck while driving to Lethbridge for their Professional Bull Riding event. I was honoured to sing in the opening of both performances, meet the hard-working individuals on the PBR production side, and mingle with the crowd. Thank you for inviting me to be a part of your incredible show!

After Lethbridge I drove straight back North to judge the Kneehill 4-H District Public Speaking. From riding lessons to skating lessons, I have taught many of the upcoming youth in 4-H and love seeing their growth throughout the years.

One mid-March morning felt like Christmas to me, as a big box labeled with Montana Silversmiths showed up in the mail! Not only is my crown and buckle designed by Montana Silversmiths, but they are also the official jewelry sponsor of Miss Rodeo Canada. I can’t wait to show you some of their pieces that I will be wearing all year long, you can also view them at https://www.montanasilversmiths.com.

While travelling away from home is not an option right now, this down time has helped me reflect on the first three amazing months of my reign as Miss Rodeo Canada 2020. I am so grateful for the continuous support from our program sponsors and fans.




I encourage you to keep following my journey, though many of us are in question about the future right now, promoting rodeo and sharing the stories of our Canadian athletes, stock and sponsors will always continue.

~ I am thinking of all affected by COVID-19; stay safe!

Alicia

Month 2/12 as Miss Rodeo Canada 2020 has come to a close, and hopefully Balzac Billy (the groundhog) was correct about his predication. Spring is supposed to be on its way!

Valentine's Day this year was especially good to me, I received the best gift - a BRAND NEW Dodge pick-up from Innisfail Chrysler. I now have a reliable vehicle to travel many miles throughout Canada and the United States of America… oh and the remote start/heated seats are quite the perk too! Thank you to our amazing sponsors that make this possible; they can be viewed at https://www.missrodeocanada.ca/mrc-sponsors.

I had ONE day of admiring my new truck, before flying out to Florida on February 16th but I couldn’t complain - I was heading to the sunshine state! I was so happy to be reunited with Jordan Tierney (Miss Rodeo America 2020) where we were hosted by the most wonderful people - Laura Kessler, and Gary and Rayelynne Ketchum. We do quite a bit of work on this trip, but Miss Laura plans many tourism activities that balance out perfectly. Over thirty queens, and myself visited more than ten schools and educated students about the history/events in rodeo. I was able to experience so many “firsts” including: hog hunting, snake holding, gator catching, frog leg eating, beach wave crashing, air boating, blueberry picking fun. At the Silver Spurs Rodeo in Kissimmee I represented the Canadian Professional Rodeo Association along with seven other Canadian rodeo athletes, and cheered them on as five out of seven took home some winnings!

I love having the opportunity to travel and share Canadian rodeo, culture, and the traditions we have that sometimes differ so greatly from others. On my last day in Florida one of the local queens came up to me and said, “Before I met you I didn’t really know what to think of Canada, but now that I’ve learned about the people, rodeo, and lifestyle, I have such a great impression of your country”. That one comment made me so happy, and I couldn’t have had a better experience in your beautiful state, Thank you Florida!

I returned to Canada on February 24, got re-climatized to the cold weather, and headed straight to Trochu Valley School. As a proud member of the ATB Financial team, I jumped at the opportunity to take a stand against bullying with them, and do a presentation about Pink Shirt Day. This was right up my alley as one of my future goals is to facilitate mental health programming in high schools.

On February 28, I attended and sang along to a televised concert put on by Stampede City Sessions and funded by ATB Financial. Thank you Terry Andryo (Director of Community Initiatives - Reputation and Brand ATB Financial) and team for inviting me to be a part of this amazing experience!

I’m looking forward, driving into March with a new set of wheels!

Alicia Erickson
Miss Rodeo Canada 2020
www.missrodeocanada.ca

* click images to enlarge

The first full month of a 365-day reign. January kicked off my year with a trip to Denver, Colorado for the Western Apparel Market and National Western Stock Show and Rodeo.

On January 10th I started my travels sitting in the pilot's seat (literally)... and assured the rest of the plane that Miss Rodeo Canada is a very responsible co-pilot.

The WESA show was like something I had never seen before. While visiting Wrangler I met Jordan Tierney, Miss Rodeo America, for the first time and I know that her and I are going to have an incredible year together! I was introduced to some of my amazing sponsors... Montana Silversmiths, Wrangler, Miss Macie Boots, Dan Post Boots and BEX. It was great to make personal connections with them all and I am excited to keep building our relationship for the future.

On January 13th I made my way over to the National Western Stock Show and Rodeo. Throughout the week I carried the American Flag at the PBR, carried flags every performance of the rodeo, visited the Children’s Hospital, the Denver Zoo, and the Canadian Consulate building. My favourite rodeo performance had to be Canada night, as I was honored to sing our National Anthem and cheer on the Canadian athletes. I completed four school visits, where I would ask the children if they knew where Canada was. At one of the school visits a young girl (kindergarten) immediately raised her hand and said “YES! I’ve been to the North Pole.” I responded with “Well not quite, but it is about that cold in Canada!”

Then off I went to the 46th Annual Steamboat Springs Cowboy Downhill Ski Race. The race was on and here comes Miss Rodeo Canada up the back stretch and down the 6-foot drop! I will let your imaginations go from there.

My time in Denver was phenomenal, and the National Western Stock Show committee welcomed me with open arms. Thank you for making my first month, and first rodeo as Miss Rodeo Canada 2020 so memorable.

Alicia Erickson
Miss Rodeo Canada 2020
www.missrodeocanada.ca

* click images to enlarge