Tartan Plaid

Christina Wenderski

National Shorthorn Lassie Board Director

Opportunity Awaits

Exciting times are ahead as the National Lassie Association has voted to move the National Queen contest to the 2021 National Junior Show in Louisville. With the move, the deadline for applications will be May 1st.

I know there are some ladies out there who have been dreaming of running for National Queen for as long as they can remember, but there are also some that may be thinking why run? For those of you who are the latter, let me tell you why. As a former National Lassie, I can tell you that the opportunities are huge! For me, I wanted the opportunity to meet more breeders across this great country as well as sharing my love for the breed with those who may not know anything about the livestock industry, let alone Shorthorns. I was able to grow and develop skills that I have utilized well into my adulthood, especially public speaking and interviewing. Besides these opportunities, the National Lassie receives $3000 in travel funds and $1000 in scholarship and the Alternate National Lassie gets $3000 in travel funds and $500 in scholarship.

In order to be considered for candidacy, ladies must be at least 16 years old and current members of the National Lassie Association and submit the application. Applications can be found on the Lassie page of www.shorthorn. org or by contacting a member of the board. Remember, this is your initial opportunity to “Wow the judges” so do not be afraid to promote yourself!

Completed application should be typed and consist of a cover letter expressing your intent to run and two letters of reference. Judges will be looking for educational information, description of your involvement within the Shorthorn breed and your personal goals for the future within the livestock industry, activities, achievements, and/ or honors that you believe to be relevant to your candidacy, and also your state queen experience/activities. There are also three pages allowed for photos and clippings that highlight your time as state queen and you as an individual. After you’ve promoted you to the best of your abilities, simply submit to Elaine Dragstrem and prepare for contest time!

While at Jr. Nationals, you will be encouraged to compete in individual contests that are held, but this is not a requirement. During the week, candidates will participate in panel interviews, sharing a photo book highlighting you and your experiences, and most importantly interacting with fellow breeders. The National Board is looking for someone who will be active and involved.

Although it may seem like a long and tedious process, please remember that this ultimately leads to amazing opportunities! As a former National Queen, I can tell you that my time in the kilt was some of the best time of my life. I was one of those who had dreamed of wearing the plaid for as long as I could remember and I eagerly applied to be a state princess when I was old enough. From princess to state queen, I eagerly awaited the opportunity to share the heritage of our great breed. I never anticipated the amount of life lessons that would occur, the skills obtained, and most importantly, the lifelong friendships and connections.

It does not matter if you have been thinking of being a Lassie for as long as you can remember or just in the last few years. By being a Lassie, you represent long tradition and history of the Shorthorn breed. Being a Lassie is more than just walking in classes at shows. It is about sharing and promoting Shorthorns across this great country. If you are even the tiniest bit curious, I encourage you to reach out to myself, any member of the board, or previous queens to learn their views and ideas. Although the process may sound tedious, please do not let this turn you away. One thing is for sure, Lassies are here to support Lassies.

Most importantly, do not be afraid to dream big! If you love Shorthorns, we want you to share your love further. =

https://shorthorn.org/national-shorthorn-lassies/