Rodeos are one of the most cherished traditions in the South and being named a rodeo queen is a special title only few possess.

Mary Ashley Rohrscheib is one of those women. As Miss Morgan County Sheriff’s Rodeo 2016, she’s spent the last year representing North Alabama at various events and parades, but it’s the friendships she’s made that have left the biggest impact.

“This whole year has been life-changing,” the 19-year-old told The News Courier on Thursday. “It was a great experience.”

Rohrscheib is preparing to hand off the crown as organizers of the rodeo are searching for this year’s pageant contestants. Deadline to enter is March 1.

While the rodeo is still weeks away, it’s time to prepare for the pageant, which grades participants on their interview skills, personality, appearance, horsemanship, speech and modeling. It’s hard work, but worth it in the end, Rohrscheib explained.

“I’m excited, because it’ll open up a lot of doors for the next girl,” she said.

Her advice to this year’s contestants? Have fun and be yourself. It’s a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, she said, so it’s important to enjoy every minute. Participants don’t have to be a resident of Morgan County to enter, but must be between the ages of 18 and 26.

Judging will take place Saturday, March 25, at Shoal Creek Baptist Church. Horsemanship patterns will be provided by the pageant committee and contestants will ride a “draw” horse.

There are also pageant categories for younger girls ages 3-17. Horsemanship is mandatory for the 16-17 division, but optional for ages 7-15. Contestants must provide their own horse. Winners of each division will receive a crown, sash and belt buckle. First and second runners-up will receive a trophy.

For more information and registration forms, visit the Morgan County Sheriff’s Rodeo Queen Facebook page and morgancoso.com/rodeo-queen.html. Questions, or requests for registration forms to be mailed, can be directed to mcsrqueen@gmail.com or 256-560-6187.