LAS VEGAS, NV – Miss Rodeo America, Inc. announced that, out of an abundance of caution following recent outbreaks of Equine Herpesvirus (EHV-1), the 2026 Miss Rodeo America Pageant will proceed without the traditional live horsemanship portion at the South Point Hotel and Casino.
The remainder of the pageant, which officially begins November 29, 2025, will continue as planned.
“In working with our partners at the American Quarter Horse Association (AQHA) and the South Point Hotel and Casino, we are removing horses from the pageant,” said Johna Niedfelt, Miss Rodeo America Horsemanship Chair. “The AQHA Ranching Heritage breeders, who supply the horses, desire to keep their horses at home, which we fully support. Additionally, the South Point Equestrian Center, who is working diligently to host the World Series of Team Roping, is limiting outside horses in their facility.”
Jeana Linton, Executive Director of Miss Rodeo America, added, “Two years ago, we made the groundbreaking change to utilize AQHA Ranching Heritage horses, which has been a fantastic addition, and we respect their decision to keep their horses at home. We are thrilled to move forward with this year’s pageant alongside our partners at the South Point. We understand that it is imperative to select a Miss Rodeo America who is comfortable in the saddle, and we believe we have created a strong solution.”
To maintain the integrity of the horsemanship category, contestants will participate in a modified horsemanship portion. Thanks to the continued generosity of the American Quarter Horse Association and the Miss Rodeo America Scholarship Foundation, all horsemanship prizes and awards will be presented as in previous years.
The regularly scheduled event and live stream of horsemanship will not be held.
“We are looking forward to seeing everyone at the South Point Hotel and Casino for our 70th Anniversary Pageant, where we will crown Miss Rodeo America 2026,” Linton concluded.
The health and welfare of equine partners remains a top priority for Miss Rodeo America, and the organization expressed gratitude to all partners and contestants for their understanding and cooperation during this challenging time.
