Mississippi claims the Miss Rodeo America title, twice in four years

Former Miss Maroon and White, now wears her crown in a cowgirl hat

On Monday December 9, 2013 Cowboy Lifestyle Network watched as Paige Nicholson from Lawrence, MS was named Miss Rodeo America, 2014.  The Hollywood Theatre at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas was packed with anticipation.

The top five finalists were first runner-up Miss Rodeo Colorado, Sara Weins; second runner-up Miss Rodeo Oregon, Nicole Schrock; third runner-up Miss Rodeo North Dakota, Krystal Carlascio and fourth runner-up Miss Rodeo Arizona, Brittney Truman.  Cowboy Lifestyle Network had their cameras ready to capture the crowning moment and hashtag #CLN2013.

The state of Mississippi made history in 2010 when Kelli Jackson was crowned Miss Rodeo America. Jackson was the first lady east of the Mississippi River to win the title. Nicholson was Jackson’s teen queen during her reign as Miss Rodeo Mississippi 2009. This is a first in the pageant’s 59-year history for a state duo to win the Miss Rodeo America title.

“When I saw Kelli win Miss Rodeo America, I got to go to the press room with her for her first official press interview. I remember even in that emotional state she was graceful, calm, well-spoken and articulate. I want to be able to do that,” she replied.  “It was my challenge moment.”

Four years later, Paige accomplished her challenge and Cowboy Lifestyle Network interviewed an hour later.  Check out the video on www.cowboylifestylenetwork.com.

Nicholson is from Lawrence, MS and a graduate of Mississippi State University. She grew up on a dairy farm and competed in a multitude of 4-H contests, showing cattle.   Six year ago she entered her first queen pageant at the high school rodeo level. Her titles include the 2007 Mississippi High School Rodeo Queen, 2009 Miss Teen Rodeo Mississippi and 2012 Miss Dixie National.

Last year, she held the 2012 Miss Maroon and White title at Mississippi State University.   “Miss Maroon and White is a non-rodeo queen title.  It is a beauty review which selects someone to do PR (public relations) for Mississippi State,” Nicholson stated.   She wanted to bring her agricultural background to the forefront as Miss Maroon and White.