Six young women from throughout California will compete for the title of Miss California Rodeo Salinas 2026 from Tuesday, June 30-Thursday, July 2 and will take the crown from Rachel Lancaster, Miss California Rodeo Salinas 2025.
“The Miss California Rodeo Salinas contest is about much more than a crown. It recognizes young women who are passionate about agriculture and rodeo, committed to personal excellence, and ready to serve as ambassadors for our sport, our community and the Western way of life,” Laurie LaVelle, director of the Miss California Rodeo Salinas Committee, said in a statement. “We look forward to welcoming this outstanding group of contestants and their families to Salinas."
Contestants will be judged based on their horsemanship and on-stage personality at the 300-square-foot California Rodeo Room. The winner will be announced on July 2.
The winner will serve as the official ambassador for the California Rodeo Salinas throughout the coming year and receive a $3,000 college scholarship, a gold and silver buckle, a tiara and access to a two-horse trailer for one year.
Contestants include Maddi Borland, Miss California High School Rodeo State Queen. She is a first-generation rancher's daughter from southern San Benito County whose lifelong dedication to rodeo began at age 5.
Lillian Crummey, Miss Rodeo Oakdale, has been involved in 4-H, showing sheep and horses from a young age. Emily Drost, Miss San Benito Rodeo, has also participated in 4-H and holds a bachelor's degree in clinical psychology.
Hayley DeMartin, Miss Wine Country Rodeo, has years of ranching experience from her family's Sonoma County beef cattle operation and is a graduate in animal science and is currently a veterinary assistant at a horse clinic. Representing Cal Poly Rodeo, Melody Gist is a microbiology major with a minor in equine science.
Lilly Kier, Miss Rodeo Glennville, is a Fresno State graduate with a degree in agricultural business, who excelled in 4-H, FFA, horse judging, and equestrian competition before graduating as her high school's valedictorian.
The competition takes place ahead of the California Rodeo Salinas, taking place July 16-19 at the Salinas Sports Complex.