“You should always think you’re going to win so you’re more confident and rock it more.” “I am nervous, but I’m just going to go out there and be myself,” Mann said. Mann was set to compete at the National High School Rodeo Queen Contest in Rock Springs, Wyo., beginning July 11 against more than 50 contestants from the United States, Canada and Australia. “I stay away from all the bad stuff because I know that I would just get everything taken away from me, and I really don’t want that.” “I like to hang out with friends and have fun, but I don’t like to get in trouble,” she said.

In order to be part of the rodeo association, Mann has to keep a 3.2 GPA in school and stay out of trouble. Rodeo has taught Mann personal and academic responsibility. “She’s been riding for about three years, and to come this far this fast is pretty remarkable. Goodwin’s husband, Todd, trains Mann in riding, roping and pole bending about three times a week. “I started when I was in junior high and fell in love with it.” “They had a son who did high school rodeo, so I learned to ride,” Mann said. Mann was introduced to riding horses by her grandfather’s colleagues during a camping trip.

“I think because my grandpa had his hand in (riding horses), I felt I needed to do something, too,” she said. Mann proved her love for rodeo by completing a horsemanship pattern in front of a panel of six judges. “Very few queens come from (Southern Nevada), and she gave these northern girls a run for their money.” “(Mann) has an awesome personality and a good belief in herself,” said Becky Goodwin, pageant director. The teen competed against three girls in a variety of pageant categories, including a written test, interview and speech. “I felt like I couldn’t breathe when they said my name.” “I’m really grateful that I won, but I was starstruck,” Mann said. Packed with brains, beauty and brawn, Mann was crowned Miss Nevada State High School Rodeo Queen by the Nevada State High School Rodeo Association June 15 in Ely.

The 16-year-old enjoys the outdoors and getting her hands dirty as much as any teenager. Henderson resident Jennifer Mann may be a beauty queen, but don’t let her looks fool you. The teen is set to compete at the National High School Rodeo Queen Contest in mid-July in Wyoming. Jennifer Mann, 16, poses after being crowned Miss Nevada State High School Rodeo Queen by the Nevada State High School Rodeo Association June 15 in Ely.

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