10/05/2022
I read this earlier today and thought it was absolutely amazing!! I also added my own pictures from my journey of joining the “rodeo world”. There are so many people who are first generation in this industry. The key is to remember that everyone starts somewhere, follow your heart and believe that you can make it happen!!💗
“I can’t help but think about what I have gone through to get where I am today. Entering into the worlds of rodeo queening and rodeo with no background in the industry, was challenging. I can remember the naysayers telling me I couldn’t be a good rodeo queen because I didn’t own cattle, have a “broke” horse that could do everything, or come from a rodeo family. However, I knew deep down that rodeo and the western world is where I was meant to be. It was in those moments that I knew I had to study, practice, and work twice as hard as those who grew up in the world that I so desperately wanted to be apart of.
After winning my first title and finally entering into the western industry, I found an unfathomable love for the sport of rodeo, priceless friendships with those who believe in me, and a desire to continue living a lifestyle I would have never discovered if I had chosen to listen to the naysayers. In the trials and tribulations, wins and losses, I found that it’s okay to be first generation; something I wish I was told as a young girl by someone who was in a position of influence. The world and lifestyle I now desire to have, found me at the right moment in my life; it gave me a place where I could discover new things about myself that had been hidden. Now, I am in the a position where I can “be a light” for others to look to and can tell young kids what I needed to hear.
If you are first generation or wanting to enter this incredible industry, I’m here to tell you that it is possible. Find what fuels your fire, what peaks your interest in the industry, people that you can lean on for help and inspiration, and discover where you want to go and who you want to be in this world; because IT IS OKAY TO BE FIRST GENERATION.”
-Jackie Scarry
Miss Rodeo California 2022