Our Ambassadors

Photos taken by our Official Photography Partner - All Around Hand Media, LLC - Georgia Strimenos.

Hello, my name is Ophelia Burns, and I am honored to serve as your 2026 Western Legacy Ambassadors Queen.

My rodeo queen journey began three years ago when I decided to try out for my local junior princess title in Park County. Although I didn't earn the title that year, the experience only strengthened my determination and passion for representing the western way of life. Instead of giving up, I worked harder, learned more, and looked forward to my next opportunity. The following year, I was finally old enough to compete for the Park County Fair and Rodeo Princess title. In 2024, all of that hard work paid off when I was crowned the Park County Fair and Rodeo Princess Attendant. That experience taught me the importance of perseverance, confidence, and believing in yourself even when things don't go your way the first time.

While rodeo queening is a huge part of my life, it is far from my only passion. I have been actively competing in rodeo since I was nine years old and currently compete through the Colorado State High School Rodeo Association as well as local youth rodeos throughout Colorado. I compete in barrel racing, pole bending, goat tying, and breakaway roping. Rodeo has taught me valuable lessons about responsibility, sportsmanship, hard work, and dedication. Every run, whether successful or challenging, has helped shape me into the person I am today.

In addition to rodeo, I am deeply involved in livestock projects. I raise and show market goats, market hogs, and breeding hogs. I began showing livestock when I was nine years old, but my agricultural journey started even earlier when I joined 4-H at the age of six as a Cloverbud. Through 4-H, I have learned countless life skills including leadership, public speaking, record keeping, animal husbandry, and community service. These experiences have helped me grow not only as a competitor but also as a young leader within my community.

Horses have always held a special place in my heart. I began my horse-showing journey on my Welsh Mountain Pony named Elf, who taught me many of the basics and helped build my confidence as a young rider. As I grew, I moved on to my Mustang, Bolero, who has become my trusted partner and now serves as my queen horse. Together, we have created countless memories in the arena, on the trail, and while representing the western industry. The bond between a horse and rider is truly special, and I am grateful every day for the lessons Bolero has taught me about patience, trust, and teamwork.

I was born and raised in Colorado and currently live on a small farm just outside of Fairplay. Living in a rural community has allowed me to be surrounded by the western lifestyle from a very young age. At home, I care for my horses, pigs, and goats, and I have learned firsthand the commitment and responsibility that come with raising livestock. Growing up in this environment has helped me develop a deep appreciation for agriculture, animal care, and the traditions that make the western way of life so special.

As your 2026 Western Legacy Ambassadors Queen, I am excited to share my passion for rodeo, agriculture, and western heritage with others. I believe that our western values—hard work, integrity, respect, perseverance, and community—are just as important today as they have always been. I look forward to representing this organization, meeting new people, encouraging young riders and exhibitors, and helping preserve the traditions that have shaped my life.

Thank you for allowing me to serve as your 2026 Western Legacy Ambassadors Queen. I am proud to represent the western lifestyle and excited for all the opportunities this year will bring.

Howdy! My name is Olivia Hoerter, and I am your 2026 Western Legacy Ambassadors Princess. I am excited to make amazing memories, meet new people, and represent the western way of life across the great State of Colorado. I am also looking forward to spending the year with our Queen, Ophelia Burns.  

I live on my family’s ranch in Fairplay, Colorado, where I spend most of my time working with my horses and playing with our 4 Australian Shepherds. Growing up on a ranch has taught me responsibility, hard work, and a love for the western lifestyle. I am passionate about sharing that lifestyle with others and helping people learn about agriculture, rodeo, and western traditions.

I am 13 years old and active in 4-H. I have held leadership positions in my club, including President and Reporter. Through 4-H, I have learned valuable leadership skills and made many great memories within my community. 

My favorite time of year is fair season. I show my horse, Pink, in several classes, and I also show my miniature horse. I spend a lot of time practicing and preparing my animals for competition. I also attend the Colorado State Fair each year. One of my proudest accomplishments was earning Reserve Champion with my miniature horse at the 2024 Colorado State Fair.

I love attending CPRA and PRCA rodeos and being involved in the western community. As a member of rodeo royalty, I am grateful for the opportunity to attend rodeos, parades, and community events throughout Colorado.

Thank you for supporting the Western Legacy Ambassadors program. I am honored to serve as your 2026 Princess and look forward to representing our western heritage throughout the year.