Hollister resident and Miss San Benito Rodeo Queen 2018 Kelsee French was crowned Miss California Rodeo Salinas 2019 at the beginning of the regional rodeo on July 18.

“It feels surreal to be crowned Miss California Rodeo Salinas,” said French on representing one of the biggest rodeos in the state.

The competition judged contestants in several categories, including horsemanship, personality, appearance and scholarship.

French prepared for the contest well in advance. She started last year by attending a Miss Rodeo America clinic in Oklahoma.

“I even did several mock interviews and horsemanship practice with horse trainer Ramona Koch,” she said. 

In addition to the title of Miss California Rodeo Salinas 2019, French received a $2,500 cash scholarship, a gold and silver trophy buckle, a gold and silver tiara, the use of a two-horse trailer for one year, along with other awards.

French is currently attending Gavilan College to pursue a degree in kinesiology with a focus on physical education. She enjoys riding reined cow horses and competing at barrel races in her spare time.