Growing up in Parkfield, California, Kara Kester has had the chance to experience things that many kids don’t ever get to do. She started to rodeo at a young age, she shows livestock, and she’s been been involved in FFA all throughout her high school career; Serving as an officer and competing in public speaking competitions. But this year, she was known under a new title; Miss California High School Rodeo Queen! After all of the opportunities she has had, and all of the new things she has gotten to try this year; Her time as queen is almost up. I talked to Kara a little bit about her experience as queen, and what she has to say to the ladies in the running to be next year’s CHSRA Queen.
Kara says that her favorite part of being queen wasn’t the glitz and glam, but getting to know the people of the rodeo industry. She says,
“It has been a true privilege to be involved with individuals who make this sport so great and are so true to it’s heritage of the western way of life.”
One thing that makes her so fit for her role as queen is her passion. Knowing her personally, I know how much she cares for her sport. But anyone who talks to her about rodeo can easily recognize her passion for her sport. That’s a trait that is important for all leaders, it doesn’t matter what your cause is.
“Passing in the crown is definitely a bittersweet feeling.” She says that she has learned much more than words can express. She’s thankful to have had this experience, and the memories made throughout her reign will last a lifetime. Kester does have the opportunity to rerun but she will be relinquishing her crown to the next young lady to give them the chance to have all of the opportunities that she had herself.
Being Miss California High School Rodeo Queen, Kara is in the public eye quite a bit. That being said, her image is extremely important. I asked her what kind of message she wants to send to young girls who look up to her, or dream of being in her shoes one day. She said,
“I would like to send the message of never doubting yourself, and never give up. I never thought I would be where I am today and being able to carry yourself with confidence makes all the difference in the world. You can do anything you set your mind to if you work hard enough and believe in yourself. Dream big and smile even bigger.”
To conclude, Kara would like to leave the girls who are competing with some words of wisdom. She urges these young ladies to cherish every experience that the title will present to you. Also, “A year goes by in a blink of an eye, so do your best to make CHSRA proud. And always remember to wear a big smile, starch your jeans, and carry an extra bottle of hairspray.”
For more information, and to learn more about her journey as queen, check out her fan page on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/KaraKesterMissCaliforniaHighSchoolRodeoQueen. Below is her most recent post, with some amazing advice: “Remember, everyone starts somewhere.”
