As 2012 closes and 2013 begins, we prepare to welcome Miss Rodeo California 2013.  Before we do, we would like to take this opportunity to both say Thank You and acknowledge a very special young lady - our Miss Rodeo California 2012, Mackenzie Cayford.

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Since being crowned Miss Rodeo California 2012, Mackenzie has traveled thousands of miles representing the State of California as our Rodeo Ambassador.  Always prepared and polished, whether making television appearances, riding in parades, meeting fans, presenting our Nation's Colors, as a judge for rodeos selecting their rodeo queen(s), attending conferences, or participating in charitable events, Mackenzie greeted everyone she met with an enthusiastic smile.  Her warm and friendly demeanor left each and every person she met with the feeling they were special.

Robert Cayford, Miss Rodeo California Mackenzie Cayford, Senator Joel Nelson, and Senator Ted Gaines

Robert Cayford, Miss Rodeo California Mackenzie Cayford, Senator Joel Nelson, and Senator Ted Gaines

From Livermore to Lakeside, from Glennville to Valley Center (where she first got her start and was their first Rodeo Queen), from Rancho Mission Viejo to San Dimas, from Bakersfield to Ramona, she attended several California Circuit Rodeos and participated in many of the events leading up to those rodeos.  She also had the opportunity to travel to Colorado Springs where she attended the Pro-Rodeo Hall of Fame Induction Ceremonies, as well as participate in many other activities.  She also traveled to Wyoming and participated in the Cheyenne Frontier Days.

Professional Rodeo Announcer Kelly Kenney and Mackenzie Cayford, Miss Rodeo California 2012 - San Dimas Rodeo

Professional Rodeo Announcer Kelly Kenney and Mackenzie Cayford, Miss Rodeo California 2012 - San Dimas Rodeo

In July, she traveled to the Calgary Stampede to participate in their Centennial Celebration which she says was an absolute highlight!

In October, Mackenzie reigned over the 2012 PRCA RAM California Circuit Finals Rodeo.  In addition to presenting the Flag of the State of California, she was also on hand at the awards ceremony to present the Year End Champions' Buckles and Saddles, and the Rodeo Average Winners Buckles.

Mackenzie and Year End Champion Steer Wrestler Luke Branquinho (photo by Liz Breault)

Mackenzie and Year End Champion Steer Wrestler Luke Branquinho (photo by Liz Breault)

Mackenzie welcoming the crowds at the PRCA RAM California Circuit Finals Rodeo Van Dam Barn Dance

Mackenzie welcoming the crowds at the PRCA RAM California Circuit Finals Rodeo Van Dam Barn Dance

In December, Mackenzie traveled to Las Vegas, Nevada, where she participated in the Miss Rodeo America Pageant - She was a Top Ten Finalist! She was also awarded third place with her beautiful scrapbook documenting her reign as Miss Rodeo California (picture courtesy of Miss Rodeo America Organization).  Mackenzie said participating in the Miss Rodeo America Pageant was an amazing experience - one she will always treasure.

Mackenzie's "Journey" as Miss Rodeo California (photo courtesy of Miss Rodeo America Pageant)

Mackenzie's "Journey" as Miss Rodeo California (photo courtesy of Miss Rodeo America Pageant)

We would like to say "Thank You" to Mackenzie for all of her hard work and dedication.  Not only has she been an excellent ambassador, but she has also been a wonderful role model for so many young ladies and a mentor to her sister Queens.  We would also like to thank and acknowledge her family, friends, sponsors, and of course, the Miss Rodeo California Board of Directors, for their support of Mackenzie!

Please join us as we wish her all her best as she moves forward with her education and future career goals.  We know the future will shine brightly on our Miss Rodeo California 2012!

Miss Rodeo California 2012 Mackenzie Cayford (photo courtesy of Miss Rodeo California)

Miss Rodeo California 2012 Mackenzie Cayford (photo courtesy of Miss Rodeo California)

For more information about Mackenzie's adventures during her reign, please visit her blog at link.  For more information about the Miss Rodeo California Organization, please visit website