2017 Gilbert Days Rodeo Queen, Taryn Cantrell

Get ready to hit the rodeo trail with the 2017 Gilbert Days Rodeo Queen, Taryn Cantrell!

Taryn is an Arizona native, who is proud to call Gilbert, Arizona home. Having lived in Gilbert for all her 22 years, Taryn is very excited and grateful to have the wonderful opportunity to give back to a community that has given her so much and to help celebrate one of Gilbert’s most exciting events – the Gilbert Days Rodeo!

Taryn’s love for horses began at a very young age when she first began riding at 4 years old. Since then, Taryn’s love for horses and the sport of rodeo has continued to grow. Taryn spent many years at the old Gilbert Rodeo Grounds barrel racing, helping push cattle during roping events, and celebrating the Gilbert Days Rodeo and Carnival with her friends and family. Having served as the Gilbert Days Legacy Rodeo Royalty Princess in 2011 and 2012, Taryn is grateful to represent her beautiful town, the exciting rodeo, and the incredibly hard-working Gilbert Promotional Corporation as the 2017 Gilbert Days Rodeo Queen.

Outside the world of rodeo, Taryn’s interests stretch far and wide. One of Taryn’s greatest loves is opera! Taryn graduated from Chandler-Gilbert Community College (CGCC) in 2016 with an Associate’s degree in the Arts. She currently attends Arizona State University where she is studying to receive a Bachelor’s degree in Vocal Performance and training to become an opera singer. After receiving her Bachelor’s degree, Taryn plans to receive a Master’s degree in Opera Performance. Since the beginning of her collegiate musical studies, Taryn has performed in various musicals and operas. One of her favorite roles was Morticia Addams in CGCC’s production of The Addams Family.

As a Town of Gilbert employee and the 2017 Gilbert Days Rodeo Queen, Taryn is immersed in all things “Gilbert.” She is proud of her ever-growing town and encourages Gilbert residents to celebrate Gilbert’s western heritage. She asks that we keep “Kickin’ up Kindness,” along each of our journeys.  

Taryn hopes to see you at the Gilbert Days Rodeo this year!

Last Updated on 03/11/2025 by Danny O’Donnell

About the Author:

Danny O'Donnell

Biography:

As the co-founder of Cowboy Lifestyle Network (CLN) Cowboy Lifestyle Network - now a western media powerhouse with over 4 million fans, Danny has become a trusted voice in rodeo culture, horse care, and Western traditions. CLN’s success is no accident; it’s built on Danny’s deep understanding of the Western way of life-its values, people, and economic engine. His work connects brands, events, and fans across a thriving industry, from the Rodeo Scottsdale to the Super Bowl Party Trophy Bar.

Danny’s journey from Arizona ranch life to Western media trailblazer is rooted in authenticity, grit, and community. Danny’s passion started early, shaped by eight years in Pinal County’s 4-H program, where he raised lambs and learned ranching hands-on. At Arizona State University, he became a division 1 collegiate diver, team captain, and earned a B.S. degree - fueling his entrepreneurial spirit. After a decade of corporate management experience, he launched CLN with his brother Patrick to amplify the voice of the Western community.

"Giving back has always mattered to me," Danny shares. His ongoing support for Horses Help, Harris Brothers Charity Foundation, and a 25-year CLN Christmas Toy Drive speaks volumes. Through action, Danny has built not just a brand, but a legacy of trust and impact in the Western world.

CLN Community & Event Sponsor