My name is Rileigh Ackley, and I am honored to represent the 79th Elgin Stampede. I am from La Grande, Oregon, and attend Imbler High School. I am currently a junior and am excited to begin my senior year this fall. I am the daughter of Bailey Ackley, whose love, support, and encouragement have helped me become the young woman I am today.

Growing up in Eastern Oregon, I have been blessed with opportunities that have shaped my character and taught me the value of hard work. Throughout high school, I have participated in volleyball and basketball, where I learned the importance of teamwork, determination, leadership, and perseverance both on and off the court.

In addition to athletics, I am very active in FFA and Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA). Through FFA, I have gained valuable agricultural knowledge, developed leadership skills, and competed in events including State Agricultural Communications and District Soil Judging. One of my proudest accomplishments has been earning my FFA State Degree. Through FBLA, I have had the opportunity to compete at the state level, where I became a two-time state placer and qualified for nationals. I am also honored to serve as an FBLA chapter officer during my senior year. These organizations have challenged me to step outside my comfort zone, become a stronger leader, and prepare for the future.

While these activities have given me many wonderful experiences, horses have always been a big part of my life. I've loved being around them for as long as I can remember, almost six years ago I got the opportunity to start riding myself. Since then, I've spent countless hours learning about horsemanship, building confidence in the saddle, and creating memories with my horse. Whether I'm out enjoying a leisurely ride or simply spending time at the barn, there is no place I'd rather be. One of my favorite opportunities has been carrying sponsor flags at the Eastern Oregon Livestock Show. Riding into the arena carrying a sponsor flag has helped me gain confidence, strengthen my horsemanship skills, and deepen my appreciation for the western way of life.

Along with my love for horses, I have always been very fond of rodeos and the traditions that surround them. Growing up, I looked forward to attending local rodeos and watching the rodeo queens represent their communities with confidence, professionalism, and western pride. I admired the way they served as ambassadors for the sport and the positive example they set for younger generations. Those experiences inspired me from a young age and helped spark my own dream of one day representing a rodeo court.

The opportunity to serve on the Elgin Stampede Rodeo Court is something I am incredibly excited about. Rodeo is more than just a sport, it's a tradition, a way of life, and a community built on hard work, respect, and western values. I look forward to spending the summer attending rodeos, parades, and community events, meeting new people, and proudly representing the Elgin Stampede. I can't wait to share my love for rodeo, promote one of Eastern Oregon's greatest traditions, and create memories and friendships that will last a lifetime. Most importantly, I hope to be a positive role model for younger generations to look up to.

I am truly excited for the journey ahead and honored for the opportunity to represent a tradition that has had such a meaningful impact on my life. I will proudly serve as the 79th Elgin Stampede ambassador for our rodeo, our community, and the western values we hold dear. I look forward to building on the legacy of the queens who came before me while inspiring the next generation to find their place in the rodeo family and keep our western heritage alive for years to come.