Become a Gold Country Pro Rodeo Queen
The Gold Country Pro Rodeo Queens Program invites young women to represent rodeo tradition, community involvement, and western values while serving as proud ambassadors throughout Auburn and beyond.
Rodeo Tradition. Community Pride.
More Than a Crown, A Commitment to Excellence
Rodeo queens represent the highest standards of character, leadership, and professionalism. They are confident, well-rounded individuals with a strong knowledge of rodeo, horsemanship, and their community. With poise, responsibility, and an outgoing spirit, they proudly serve as ambassadors for the sport and uphold its values—both in and out of official attire.
Important Dates
For questions or more information, please get in touch with our Queens Coordinator, Mariah Byrd, at 858-699-9108 or via email at missgcprqueens@yahoo.com.
Orientation
Date: March 7th, 2026
Location: 461 Grass Valley Hwy, Suite 12, Auburn, CA 95603
Time: 5:30 pm
Pageant
Date: May 9th, 2026. Location: Blue Goose Events Center3550 Taylor Road, Loomis, CA 95650
Time: Doors open at 4:00 pm.
Dinner is served at 5:00 pm. Speeches start at 5:45 pm.
Activities: Enjoy speeches, impromptu questions, raffles, silent auction, modeling, dinner, drinks, and more!
Tickets: $20 in advance and $30 at the door.
12 & under – $15
5 & under – Free
Horsemanship
Date: May 16th, 2026
Location: Gold Country Fairgrounds.
Time: 9:00 am.
Coronation
During the rodeo.
Pageant Director
Name: Mariah Byrd
Phone: (858) 699-9108
Email: missgcprqueens@yahoo.comRodeo Royalty
Miss Gold Country Pro Rodeo 2025
Representing the spirit of rodeo and the Auburn community with pride and professionalism.
Miss Gold Country Pro Rodeo
Lilly Ekberg
Lilly Ekberg proudly serves as the 2025 Miss Gold Country Pro Rodeo Queen, representing the legacy of rodeo with professionalism, integrity, and a lifelong dedication to the Western way of life. She has been involved in rodeo with the Flying U Rodeo Company since the age of four, developing a strong foundation in horsemanship, rodeo traditions, and community service.
Outside the arena, Lilly is committed to public service as a 911 dispatcher in law enforcement, where she supports first responders and her community with calm leadership and clear communication.
With a deep respect for the sport, its history, and the people who keep it alive, Lilly is honored to serve as an ambassador for the Gold Country Pro Rodeo throughout the 2025 season.
Jr. Miss Gold Country Pro Rodeo
Belle Saul
Hi everyone! My name is Belle Saul, and I am proud to serve as your 2025 Gold Country Pro Rodeo Jr. Queen. I am 16 years old and currently a sophomore in high school. I actively compete in gymkhana with the California Gymkhana Association alongside my horse, Sugar, and I love continuing to grow as a rider. When I’m not riding, I enjoy dancing, staying active, and representing the rodeo community with pride and enthusiasm.
Young Miss Gold Country Pro Rodeo
Penelope Hagman
Howdy y’all! My name is Penelope “Penny” Hagman, and I am honored to be your 2025 Young Miss Gold Country Pro Rodeo. This experience has helped me grow in confidence and has blessed me with lifelong friendships along the way. I especially enjoy attending rodeos as visiting royalty, meeting younger girls who look up to the queens, and sharing my journey with them. I love encouraging others to run for their own titles and chase their rodeo dreams.
Little Miss Gold Country Pro Rodeo
River Avilla
River Avilla is proud to represent the Gold Country Pro Rodeo as its first-ever Little Miss. She loves sharing her passion for rodeo and the western way of life with people of all ages. River is an avid youth competitor who participates in barrel racing and junior rodeo events and enjoys serving as an ambassador for the rodeo while competing. Outside the arena, she is a thriving third grader who loves art, music, science, and inspiring other little cowgirls to chase big dreams.
Experience the Energy, Tradition, and Championship Spirit of the Rodeo
Join Us for an Unforgettable Gold Country Pro Rodeo Experience
From heart-pounding competition to timeless western tradition, the Gold Country Pro Rodeo brings the community together for a weekend filled with excitement, pride, and unforgettable moments. Don’t just watch the rodeo — be part of the legacy.
Built on Grit. Backed by Great Sponsors.
We proudly recognize the sponsors who help bring world-class rodeo action to Gold Country.
