The annual Mid-Western Rodeo in Manawa is underway. Stephanie Voight is this year’s Rodeo Queen. Now at the age of 20, Stefanie has been coming to the event ever since she can remember. What makes the Manawa Rodeo special, she says, is the many different activities that keeps people of all ages entertained.
“This rodeo experience is a lot different, a different environment. It’s a lot more laid back than some other horse-related shows” Voight explained. “It’s a lot more inviting and fun sometimes because you can be doing one thing one minute and you can be doing something else the next minute, so you never know what you’re going to do next.”

Voight is a graduate from Brillion High School, and has had a love of horses since she was 10.
“Ace was his name” Voight said. “He was my first horse and my love of riding grew from there.”

Stefanie adds that there will be many familiar sights and sounds to expect again at this year’s event with some new attractions.
“Star Fire Family Show, which comes every year. We’re having Whistle Nut as the rodeo clown and other bands like the Buffalo Stomp and the 308’s. The entertainment acts like the Drill Team and the Pink Ribbon Team are always great to see” said Voight.

Friday night will be Military Night where fans are encouraged to wear their red, white and blue in support of military families. Saturday will begin with a 5K run walk at 7:30 a.m. , a Family Day Rodeo beginning at 2 p.m. and Tough Enough to wear Pink in the evening, which is an effort to raise awareness about breast cancer.  Stepanie will pass on her Rodeo Queen crown to a new winner this year and she says she’s looking forward to enjoying this year’s rodeo without the added pressure of last year.
“Last year was the queen competition, so part of that got a little stressful, but it was worth it, but it will be nice to know the ropes and things and go from there.”
Stefanie said her focus is a little different for this year.
” I want to educate people about the sport of rodeo, specially those who are not familiar with it. I am also very excited to get to meet all of you!”