Bailee Mackey was recently crowned as 2024’s Miss Rodeo Wyoming. On the contest website, the Hilliard native and 2021 Cowboy Days Queen is described as a fifth-generation rancher pursuing an online degree in equine science and management at Utah State University.

When she is not in class or at a pageant, Mackey can be found riding horses, working cattle, snowmobiling, dirtbiking and tweaking engines. She also competes in the Intermountain Reining Horse Association and coaches the Utah State equestrian team.

“It’s been a dream of mine since I was little, starting in the younger divisions,” Mackey told the Herald. “It’s always been a dream to win a state title, then move on to Miss Rodeo America.” She has competed in pageants since she was 8 years old, when she won a junior princess title in Rich County, Utah.

The Wyoming contest requires candidates to possess a championship title, most of which are acquired at Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association (PRCA) rodeos. Mackey’s Cowboy Days title filled this requirement, qualifying her for the state competition.

After winning the state title, Mackey is preparing for the national competition. In January of next year, she will take her place as Miss Rodeo Wyoming, and will subsequently enter the running for Miss Rodeo America in December 2024 at South Point Hotel and Casino in Las Vegas.

Prior to beginning her year as Miss Rodeo Wyoming, Mackey will host a fundraising gala on Oct. 28, at the Evanston Roundhouse. She said she would appreciate donated items for a live or silent auction, as well as sponsorships. Those interested, she added, can reach her via Facebook or the Miss Rodeo Wyoming website.

Mackey concluded her comments with a note of gratitude, saying, “I would like to thank everyone for all of their support and their love, and for pushing me to achieve my goals as Miss Rodeo Wyoming.”