02/10/2025
📍Salem, OR
The NPRA Finals were nothing short of incredible, and I am forever grateful to have been part of such a special weekend. It felt like the perfect way to close out a year filled with memories, friendships, and growth.
The weekend began on Thursday evening with the kickoff dinner, where I had the honor of speaking and welcoming so many wonderful guests. Sharing my story and representing the Northwest Professional Rodeo Association in that setting was an experience I’ll never forget. The energy and support in that room set the tone for the entire weekend.
Friday was packed full of excitement as we made sponsor visits throughout Salem. I was joined by so many fellow rodeo queens, and it was such a joy to travel around the city together. I was so blessed to share those moments with Jr. Miss Megan, Teen Miss Reegan, Caitlyn—the Jr. Miss NPRA 2026 Lady-in-Waiting, and Teen Miss NPRA 2026 Lady-in-Waiting Teala. Getting to meet so many wonderful people alongside such an incredible group of young ladies was a true highlight. Thank you so much to Toyota, Wilco, Coastal, and Triple H for opening your doors to us, taking the time to visit, and for the support you continue to show rodeo.
That evening brought another special moment—Teen Miss NPRA Reegan and I had the opportunity to do a live radio interview with KYKN. It was such a fun and meaningful moment to share not only about the Finals but also about what rodeo means to me personally. We closed out the night with an incredible patriotic-themed performance, and I couldn’t have been more proud to stand alongside my queens in celebrating our country and the traditions we hold dear.
Saturday was filled to the brim with excitement. Two performances kept the arena buzzing, and in between, I had the opportunity to celebrate at my reception! Receiving my contestant jacket was such a milestone moment, but what truly touched me was looking out and seeing so many of my fellow queens there to support me. Afterward, we gathered for a group photo captured beautifully by Elaines Images—a snapshot I’ll treasure forever because it perfectly captured the joy and love of that moment.
The evening performance on Saturday was particularly special as we joined together for Can Cancer Purple Night. Standing in the arena wearing purple and knowing we were helping raise awareness for such an important cause was incredibly moving. Another highlight of the weekend was having Jr. Miss Megan and Teen Miss Reegan by my side each night helping me push cows—they worked so hard and made the experience all the more memorable. I couldn’t have asked for better teammates to share the arena with!
By Sunday morning, my car battery may have died (a little comic relief to finish the weekend😂), but my heart was so full. As the rodeo season officially came to an end, I was overcome with emotion. It’s hard to put into words how much this year has meant to me, but I can say without a doubt that it has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my life.
I want to thank every single person who has supported me along the way—my family, friends, sponsors, fellow queens, and everyone in the rodeo community. This year would not have been possible without you, and I will carry the lessons and memories from this journey with me forever.
Professional photo credits to Emma Folz Photography & Elaine's Images
Forever grateful,
Aubrey DeRoest
2025 Miss NPRA
