Ramona Cowgirl Is First Runner-up in National Rodeo Queen Pageant

When the final moment came during the Miss Rodeo America pageant in Las Vegas on Dec. 4, it came down to two young women standing in the spotlight: Markie Battaglia of Ramona, who is the current Miss Rodeo California, and McKenzie Haley, Miss Rodeo South Dakota. They had become best friends over the past year, and even more so during the weeklong events leading up to the pageant. It was an unforgettable moment, full of excitement for all involved.

Then the announcement was made. Haley was crowned Miss Rodeo America 2011. Battaglia was named first runner-up. There were 28 state rodeo queens competing for the title.

"It was something I wanted," Battaglia said, after returning home to Ramona. "I definitely went there to win. But I know when one door closes, another opens. I'm still going to have a very successful life. That's OK."

She placed first in the horsemanship competition. Her specialty in rodeo is competing in barrel running and team roping.

Battaglia, 22, will continue her duties as Miss Ramona California through Jan. 15, when she attends the Circuit Rodeo Finals in Las Vegas.

Traveling has become a way of life during her reign as California's queen. She has logged more than 30,000 miles within California, attending rodeo functions and visiting schools and hospitals. She also has traveled to other states.

"I had amazing opportunities to travel outside of the state: Florida, Colorado, Nebraska, Nevada and Texas."

The trips were mainly to attend rodeos, as well as other personal appearances.

"We do a lot of volunteering and promoting," she said.

A 12-year-resident of Ramona, Battaglia learned to ride on her family's ranch just outside of town. She started entering rodeo queen pageants when she was 15 and was named Miss Junior Ramona Rodeo Queen in 2003. This was followed by the title of California High School Rodeo Queen in 2004. She also served as president of the California High School Rodeo Association that year. Then came a series of rodeo queen titles—Lakeside in 2005, Poway in 2006 and Clovis in 2008.

In between all the rodeo appearances, Battaglia found time to begin her college career at Arizona State University, where she majored in communications with a minor in Spanish. She plans to return to college next August and is considering changing her major to broadcasting. 

One of the prizes she received as first runner-up was a $5,000 scholarship. She also received a silver-plated show saddle, engraved belt buckle and embroidered saddle blanket.

Battaglia will continue competing in rodeo in the months ahead. Until she heads back to Arizona, she plans to spend more time with friends and family, something she hasn't been able to do in the past year.