Paying homage to a beloved grandfather inspired sophomore Gracie Anderson to throw her hat into the 2025 Calaveras Rodeo Queen contest. The annual contest is a competition open to young ladies living in Calaveras County. Anderson, pictured second from the left, is one of four contestants in the senior queen contest and the only one representing Bret Harte Union High School.
When asked why Anderson is competing she shared, "I decided to run because my Grandpa Ronnie Anderson always wanted me to run." Gracie added, "He passed away almost two years ago and I decided this was the year I wanted to do it for him."
The competition began in January, and has kept contestants busy with fundraisers, parades, dinners and events. Contestants are put through written tests, horsemanship, speeches and impromptu questions. The crowning is scheduled for Thursday, May 15 after horsemanship at 9:00 AM and the 1:30 PM "Rhinestone and Wranglers" event, or approximately at 3:00 PM in the Ranch House at Frogtown.
"If I were to be designated the Crown in May it would mean the absolute world to me. My community has treated me so well and I’d love to give back by being not only a role model to young girls but a true representative of how amazing our county and community is," shared Anderson.
Follow the Calaveras Rodeo Queen at https://www.facebook.com/CalaverasSaddleQueen/. History of rodeo queens can be found at https://www.frogtown.org/team. Details about this year's Calaveras County Fair & Jumping Frog Jubilee can be found at https://www.frogtown.org/. Photo courtesy of Calaveras Rodeo Queen.