07/12/2026
Celebrating 80 years of tradition at The World’s Largest Amateur Rodeo, Cavalcade!
Dawn Sydebotham-Baxstrom
1998–1999 | 51st Cavalcade Queen
I had brunch with the Cavalcade Queen Alumni today. It was wonderful hearing the stories of other queens and reflecting on how the competition impacted our lives—and the lives of so many others.
The competition in 1998 added a unique layer of challenge and excitement.
There were the obvious judges…and three mystery judges. They watched your conduct day and night. Contestants were told they could be anywhere—the after-rodeo dance, the grocery store, the camps, trailers, barns, or simply observing how we carried ourselves throughout the week. I thought that was a DEAL!
There were no ticket sales. Judging consisted of:
• 80% Horsemanship – three patterns, day and night arena runs, flag work, and the parade.
• 20% Communication & Appearance – speech, radio interviews, modeling, along with activities like the car wash, dinner, and a week packed full of events.
In addition, I made the 100 mile trail ride and competed in the breakaway and team roping that same year.
Winning earned an automatic opportunity to compete for Miss Rodeo Oklahoma, which I went on to college instead.
I was honored to spend that year representing Cavalcade before passing the crown to the next queen.
Looking back after all these years, one of the greatest blessings has been having the opportunity to encourage and mentor future queens and princesses as they step into their own season. What a privilege it has been to watch the tradition continue for 80 years and to see each generation leave its own mark.
Happy 80th Anniversary, Cavalcade! Here’s to the memories, the friendships, and the legacy that continues.
