Norfolk Native crowned Miss Clearwater Rodeo

Amanda Sellin, a 17-year-old from Norfolk, was crowned Miss Clearwater Rodeo this weekend at the 54th annual Clearwater Rodeo.

Sellin stated she has been competing on the rodeo circuit since she was around 10 years old but started riding horses when she was 4.

"I started roping around age 14 or 15, which led me to get into some of the high school rodeo action," Sellin said.

When asked how she felt when she heard her name announced for Miss Clearwater Rodeo, Sellin said, "I felt happiness and extreme joy. I grew up watching rodeos and rodeo queens, so it was exciting when all the suspense was over and my fellow running mates and I were finally able to find out the winner and able to represent Clearwater."

As this is Sellin's first time competing in a queen contest, she has not yet decided if she plans to run for any contests after Miss Clearwater Rodeo.

"I have a little hope that I will and a few thoughts that I will not, but it is a mystery of unknown at this time," said Sellin.

She plans to represent the title Miss Clearwater Rodeo with pride and excitement.

"I want to travel to many rodeos, parades, events and represent the Clearwater Rodeo as best as I can."

Not only did Sellin gain confidence achieving the title of Miss Clearwater Rodeo, but she "absolutely loved and had a great time at the Clearwater Rodeo."

"All the people I worked and interacted with were kind and managed to crack jokes that made me smile. I would recommend the Clearwater Rodeo to as many people as I can, to help others experience all the excitement I felt."

Sellin wants young girls who also want to be rodeo queens to know that if they even have the slightest thought about running for a title, they should.

"The best advice I can give is to just do it because it is one of the best and most fun experiences that you will ever have. Just being you and your horse in the arena with a flag...is one of the best experiences that you can have, so definitely just do it."

Sellin credits friends and loved ones for helping her achieve the title.

"Josey Booth of Neligh, one of my fellow running mates I have known for a few years, was always a kind presence in the arena and helped me with achieving my title. Taylor Bolling of Clearwater was also a great help."

Bolling helped with hair and makeup and was "a bubbly presence in the arena."

She said the Lehr sisters, Bailey and Brooke, both former Miss Clearwater Rodeo title winners, offered "confident voices in the arena."

Sellin said, "I want to thank my parents for traveling with me and hauling me around, and especially putting up with me all these years. I am very thankful for all the time and energy that they have given to help me."

She is the daughter of Todd and Rhonda Sellin.