CONCORDIA, KS – July 15, 2025 – Concordia’s own Vivian Owen, 16, was named the Rodeo Queen at the 72nd annual NCK Saddle Club Rodeo on Friday, July 11. The prestigious event took place at the Cloud County Fairgrounds, drawing a crowd to witness the culmination of the competition.
Owen’s victory earned her a significant $2,000 scholarship to Cloud County Community College, a valuable prize for her future educational pursuits. In addition to the scholarship, she was awarded a coveted belt buckle, a traveling crown, chaps, a sash, and an array of other prizes, solidifying her reign for the upcoming year.
Finishing as runner-up was 15-year-old Zoe Braun, also from Concordia. Braun demonstrated strong performance throughout the contest, securing a $1,000 scholarship to Cloud County Community College and a headstall. Both Owen and Braun were also presented with flower bouquets in recognition of their achievements.
In a traditional gesture, the 2024 NCK Saddle Club Rodeo Queen, Ashlynn Alderson, was present at the coronation to pass on the mantle of royalty.
The annual NCK Saddle Club Rodeo Queen contest is open to young women between the ages of 14 and 21. Contestants are judged on a comprehensive set of criteria, including their success in ticket sales, their horsemanship skills, their performance in an interview, the results of a written test, and their overall appearance. Owen’s well-rounded performance across these categories led to her being crowned the new queen, representing the NCK Saddle Club for the coming year.
