This year marks a special milestone for the Lincoln County Fair Rodeo Royalty, which is celebrating its 60th anniversary. Since its start in 1965, the program has crowned dozens of young women who have represented the county with pride, poise, and plenty of rodeo grit.

Leading the program today is the 1987 Rodeo Queen, Cassie Jenkins, who has dedicated many years to mentoring these young rodeo ambassadors. “This is my tenth year working with the royalty,” she said. “I did five years quite a while ago, came back for another four-year span, and now I’m in my tenth year.”

The anniversary is especially meaningful for Jenkins, who has not only guided many girls through the program but also watched three of her own daughters wear the crown — all three of them as Lincoln County Rodeo Queens.

“Having had the opportunity to watch my three girls hold the title of Lincoln County Rodeo Queen has been a complete honor,” Jenkins said. “What a privilege it has been for them to help carry on the tradition and legacy of strong, empowering women who live, love, and uphold our western heritage and way of life. It has taught them to have courage, strength, kindness, and to value a lifestyle that continues to stand tall. They, along with many others, have paved the way in pursuing and upholding the Cowgirl legacy! One of her greatest rewards as the L.C Rodeo queen coordinator has been to witness the incredible transformations of participants as they embark on their own personal rodeo Queen journey. The drive and determination these girls portray is something to be admired.”

The commemorative 60th anniversary poster, which can be seen on pages 14A–15A of the July 23, 2025 edition of the Star Valley Independent,  features a collage of past royalty, showcasing decades of local women who have helped carry on that tradition.

Among those featured is Lynette Olsen, who made history as the first Lincoln County Rodeo Queen in 1965. Olsen recalls the contest as being “very simple” — just 8 to 10 girls trying out for one title: Rodeo Queen. Contestants were judged on a basic riding pattern and answered a few questions in the arena. Winners were awarded a fabric ribbon sash, and their duties included riding in the Lincoln County Fair parade and rodeo, as well as traveling to Montpelier, Idaho, to represent the county at their rodeo.

Olsen remembers the contest taking place at the Lincoln County Fairgrounds.  They rode a pattern and carried a flag as well as being asked questions on horse anatomy while in the arena. She was awarded a gold ring with her birthstone, a crown, sash and her’s was the first year they had serape blankets.  Her attendants were Barbara Kennington and Teddy Frome Goulding.

Archie Hale was over the Queen Contest at the time Olsen competed. She said, “Archie was an old bachelor who loved horses and kids.  He taught a youth riding club and we performed routines at the Rodeo’s every year!”

While the program has grown in scope and polish over the past six decades, its core remains the same — to provide young women with opportunities to grow, lead, and serve their community.

This year’s royalty includes:

Lincoln County Rodeo Queen: Ella Cranney

Queen 1st Attendant: Clanci Osmond

Jr. Princess: Avery Green

Jr. Princess 1st Attendant: Scarlet Wagner

“They are so excited and looking forward to attending and representing at the Lincoln County Fair,” shares Jenkins. “Each week they meet as a group and work on their flag presentation. Having the opportunity to carry the American flag on horseback is definitely one of the highlights of their summer!”

You can find this year’s royalty at many events during fair week. They’ll be attending 4-H and open livestock shows, supporting contestants, handing out ribbons, and making nightly appearances at main events. “Queen Ella Cranney has the opportunity to carry the American flag,” Jenkins added. “They will present their flag routine Thursday, Friday, and Saturday evenings at the PRCA rodeos, and will also be signing autographs on Friday evening behind the main grandstands.”

Outside of fair week, this year’s royalty has already been active in the community — from attending Alpine Mountain Days, the Freedom Festival 5K, and the Thayne and Afton Fourth of July parades, to performing their flag routine at the Afton Jr. Rodeo, Ranch Rodeo, and Cokeville Parade. They’re also planning to ride in the Preston, Idaho Parade and Rodeo, and give back by volunteering at the local dog shelter, food pantry, and elementary schools.

Be sure to watch for the Lincoln County Fair Royalty at this year’s events as they proudly represent 60 years of tradition, leadership, and community spirit.