Cochrane’s own Kyla Lightfoot is chasing her biggest rodeo dream yet.
Lightfoot, who currently holds the title of Miss Ponoka Stampede 2025, will compete this fall for Miss Rodeo Canada 2026. The competition takes place September 27 to October 3 during the Canadian Finals Rodeo (CFR) in Edmonton.
“It’s been a long-term goal of mine,” Lightfoot said. “It all started back in Cochrane as the 2023 Lions Rodeo Queen, then I became Miss Rodeo Airdrie, and now Ponoka. I’m really excited to take this next step.”
The week-long competition tests contestants on horsemanship, public speaking, a written exam, and community events. One of the biggest challenges, Lightfoot says, is riding unfamiliar horses. “Every horse is completely different, so I’ve been preparing by getting on as many as I can. The more variety, the better.”
Lightfoot will compete alongside eight other young women, many of whom she’s become friends with along the way. “It’s a tough week with long days, but having those friendships makes it a lot easier,” she said.
RELATED STORIES:
- Cochrane’s Kyla Lightfoot crowned Miss Ponoka Stampede 2025
- Former Cochrane rodeo Queen receives new crown
- Fulfilling lifelong dream brought tears to Kyla's eyes
- Kyla Lightfoot says goodbye after year as Rodeo Queen
If she wins, Lightfoot will take part in hundreds of events across Canada representing professional rodeo. And she says support from her hometown would mean a lot.
“Sharing posts from Miss Rodeo Canada on social media or even coming out to Edmonton to cheer me on would be phenomenal,” she said.
The new Miss Rodeo Canada will be crowned October 3 during the Canadian Finals Rodeo.
