Bent County Fair Royalty Program Expands Opportunities Across the Region

Anne Boswell Taylor
3 days ago
2 min read

(Las Animas, CO) -- A big change is coming to the Bent County Fair Royalty Program. The Bent County Fair Board voted unanimously at Monday night’s meeting to expand eligibility to include allowing participants from neighboring counties to audition.

Fair Board President Leeann Ridley brought the idea to the board saying she felt it could increase participation. Lamar, with the Prowers County Royalty has already opened up their program to girls from other counties and the Arkansas Valley Fair Royalty program also has open eligibility.

“I want it to be open to anybody who wants to come and run for Bent County also, because that might draw more girls to come and try.” Ridley explained as she wants to host a clinic ahead of any auditions.

“I want to focus on Bent County but at this point, growing it would be more important,” Vice President Justin Homm added.

In 2025, the Bent County Fair Royalty program was revived after ten years of having no one interested.

Recent Bent County Fair Queen Shali Van Campen stated that she enjoyed being the Bent County Fair Queen because it allowed her the chance to represent the fair and to really get to know all of those involved with the fair. (Colorado News Your Way, June 2025)

County Fair Royalty participants serve as public representatives of their counties at parades, rodeos, and other public speaking events. The Queen, Princess and the court are community ambassadors promoting Western heritage and agriculture.

It is helpful that girls wishing to try-out for the Bent County Royalty program have experience in riding horses, horsemanship.

An upcoming clinic is planned for girls interested. The clinic is planned for June 7^th and will focus on horsemanship, public speaking, and help with hair and make-up.

More questions can be directed to Leann Ridley at 719-431-0221.

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