The Inaugural Utah Cowgirl Collective
Meet the Six Women in the 2023 Class
Photos courtesy of The Utah Cowgirl Collective | Photos by: Steve Gray
In the bustling city of Salt Lake City, on May 31, 2023, the Utah Days of '47 Rodeo proudly unveiled the inaugural members of the Utah Cowgirl Collective program. Six young ladies emerged victorious from a pool of 24 talented applicants hailing from every corner of the State of Utah. It was a momentous occasion, marking the beginning of a remarkable journey for these exceptional cowgirls.
United by their shared passion for the Western lifestyle, each cowgirl has wholeheartedly committed to dedicating an entire year to serving their community. Their mission is multifaceted: to educate the youth about the rich heritage of the West, to foster connections and kinship among women, and to embody the indomitable spirit and resilience that characterized the true essence of cowgirls as they proudly serve as the official ambassadors and flag bearers of the esteemed Utah Days of '47 Rodeo, scheduled to take place in July.
Photos courtesy of The Utah Cowgirl Collective | Photos by: Steve Gray
Tommy Joe Lucia, the General Manager of the Utah Days of '47 Rodeo, expressed his profound astonishment at the depth of talent that unfolded during the selection process. “We were blown away by the deep level of talented cowgirls we found in Utah and feel that these six bring an array of backgrounds and interest to truly make this a Cowgirl Collective,” Lucia said. He believes this groundbreaking initiative serves as a powerful platform for the modern cowgirl, and he eagerly anticipates the profound impact it will have on young women and the entire community.
As the Utah Cowgirl Collective cowgirls prepare to embark on their extraordinary journey, their hearts are ready to embrace their roles as ambassadors, flag girls, and catalysts for change. Together, they will weave a tapestry of inspiration, empowerment, and unity that will forever transform the lives of the young ladies they will encounter and the community they hold dear.
Meet The Cowgirls
Mckenna Addington
A recent high school graduate from Grantsville, Utah, McKenna has grown up in the rodeo world for most of her life. Her stepmother, Kellie, is the daughter of Jeff Flitton, who took over Bar T Rodeo after the passing of Bud Kerby. During her time in high school, McKenna actively participated in the Future Farmers of America (FFA) and now sets her sights on pursuing a pharmaceutical degree.
Photos courtesy of The Utah Cowgirl Collective | Photos by: Steve Gray
Texie Buttars
Texie, a resident of Snowville, Utah, is actively involved in the operations of her family-owned 27 Ranch. During her high school years, she competed in Reined Cowhorse and still participates in shows whenever her schedule permits. Her father, Brandon Buttars, is a renowned competitor in the National Reined Cow Horse Association (NRCHA) and even had a featured role in the film "Down The Fence." Currently, Texie is on the verge of obtaining her certification from Midwest Natural Healing for Animals, with the intention of establishing a mobile practice focused on equine and dogs.
Photos courtesy of The Utah Cowgirl Collective | Photos by: Steve Gray
Libby Huffman
Libby, a resident of Fort Duchesne, Utah, recently achieved her LPN degree from Uintah Basin Technical College and has set her sights on obtaining her RN degree at Utah State University. Libby is the daughter of Suzanne Fausett Huffman, who showcased her remarkable skills in barrel racing by qualifying for the National Finals Rodeo from 1985 to 1988. Inspired by her mother's achievements, Libby aspires to embark on her own professional rodeo journey in 2024.
Photos courtesy of The Utah Cowgirl Collective | Photos by: Steve Gray
Sayge Madsen
Sayge is from Morgan, Utah, and has accomplished several impressive feats. After graduating from Bridgerland Technical College, she obtained her vet technician certification. Furthermore, she recently completed her Nail Technician license from Ogden Weber Technical College. Sayge's passion for photography emerged as she captured her younger brothers' moments competing in the Utah High School Rodeo Association, leading her to establish her own photography business. Additionally, she ventured into the world of belt beading, starting a business of her own. Sayge's high school years were filled with involvement in FFA, where she showcased her skills in showing steers and achieved success in the Utah High School Rodeo Association.
Photos courtesy of The Utah Cowgirl Collective | Photos by: Steve Gray
Annie Roper
Annie, a resident of Riverton, Utah, is currently pursuing an Agribusiness degree at Utah State University, focusing on animal nutrition. During high school, she excelled by completing a Veterinary Assistant certification and graduating at the top of her class. Annie's passion for reining horses has been evident since the tender age of 4, and she has actively participated in local reining competitions after training under various reining experts. Alongside her equestrian pursuits, Annie shares her expertise by teaching horseback riding lessons and works in customer service at Scheels. Notably, she held the esteemed title of 2nd Attendant in the Lehi Round-Up Royalty 2022.
Photos courtesy of The Utah Cowgirl Collective | Photos by: Steve Gray
Emma Stowe
Emma, a recent graduate from Taylorsville, Utah, holds a remarkable familial connection as a fourth-generation relative of Brigham Young. With a passion for equine physical therapy, Emma has already obtained certification in equine massage therapy. She is currently working towards a vet tech degree to further her expertise in the field. Her family holds a significant place in Utah's equestrian history, being the owners of the first Morgan Horse in the state. They were also actively involved in the Utah Centennial Horse Show, where they proudly claimed the title of grand champion with their Morgan horse. Additionally, Emma served as the Western Stampede Rodeo queen during a recent reign, showcasing her deep-rooted love for the equestrian world.
Photos courtesy of The Utah Cowgirl Collective | Photos by: Steve Gray
Photos courtesy of The Utah Cowgirl Collective | Photos by: Steve Gray
The Utah Cowgirl Collective offers a transformative experience for its members, promising a $10,000 scholarship for continuing education once they successfully complete a year of service and fulfill their obligations. Embracing the essence of true grit, the collective believes in fostering strong relationships while upholding compassion and kindness as fundamental values. By actively engaging in charitable endeavors, social gatherings, workshops, and training sessions, they strive to empower women and cultivate new leaders within the vibrant Western lifestyle.
Photos courtesy of The Utah Cowgirl Collective | Photos by: Steve Gray
Utah Days Of ’47 Rodeo
Each year in July, the renowned Utah Days of '47 Rodeo takes place at the magnificent Days of '47 Arena, a $17.5 million state-of-the-art facility. Nestled within the Utah State Fairpark, this outdoor arena, situated in the heart of Salt Lake City, boasts an impressive capacity of over 10,000 stadium-style seats. As one of Utah's oldest and most cherished traditions, the Utah Days of '47 Rodeo has been honoring the state's rich heritage since 1847. This iconic event, along with other Days of '47 celebrations, pays tribute to the historic day of July 24, 1847, when determined Mormon pioneers fulfilled their aspirations upon entering the Great Salt Valley. As a private, non-profit, volunteer-driven, and charitable organization, the Utah Days of '47 Rodeo is dedicated to preserving Utah's pioneer legacy and educating the younger generation.
Photos courtesy of The Utah Cowgirl Collective | Photos by: Steve Gray
The very generous boot camp host of the inaugural Utah Cowgirl Collective class was Bridle Up Hope. Bridle Up Hope is a nonprofit organization founded in honor of Rachel Covey, that empowers young women through equestrian training, promoting confidence, resilience, and hope. Their Equine-Assisted Learning curriculum combines horse riding, life skills development, service, and self-renewal activities, with a goal of establishing 1,000 chapters worldwide to impact the lives of thousands of girls and women.