On February 14, 1971, a spirited gathering took place at Pleasure Time Farm in Grand Forks, North Dakota, as the Grand Trail Riders Club hosted its annual Queen contest despite severe sub-zero temperatures. Young equestrians donned their winter riding gear and brought their blanketed horses to compete for the title of the club’s Queen and Junior Princess.
Participants included nine young ladies, each demonstrating their riding skills before an audience of family, friends, and horse enthusiasts. The contestants were: Sunny Bullard, 15; Nancy Thompson, 15; Janet Flewell, 17; Shelley Brey, 15; Virginia Burkholz, 15; Janelle Sherva, 14; Pam Krabbenhoft, 13; Kathy Dean, 13; and Ruth Grina, 13.
The event marked a significant occasion for the Grand Trail Riders Club, which has been active for two years and comprises families from Grand Forks and Traill Counties. With over 50 members, the club offers activities for all ages, ranging from six-year-olds to grandparents. Meetings generally occur during winter months, while summer months are dedicated to horse shows and trail rides.
Organized by club officials, including President Trudie Bullard and Secretary-Treasurer Patty Parker, the event required meticulous planning. A committee comprising Barbara Schafer, Alice Mutchler, and John Madsen helped manage the competition, ensuring a smooth experience for all participants.
The day featured two main components: horsemanship and personal interviews. Contestants rode assigned horses, not their own, and were judged on their ability to handle the animals while performing requested patterns. Each girl was evaluated on her riding skills, the correct use of equipment, and the way she mounted and led her horse.
“The usual excitement connected with a contest was evident in the spacious area of the barn lounge and tack room as participants nervously chatted with one another,”
noted local journalist Dorothy Abrahamson in the Grand Forks Herald. This excitement was palpable as contestants prepared for their performances.
An additional highlight of the day was the Junior Princess competition, featuring five younger contestants: Rhea Montgomery, 12; Karen Duncan, 11; sisters Karen and Susan Dean, ages 11 and 9; and Jackie Gensrich, 6. Clad in full western attire, these young riders also showcased their skills in front of the judges.
As the day concluded, the competitive spirit transformed into camaraderie. Kathy Dean, the golden-haired daughter of Mr. and Mrs. John Dean, was crowned the 1971 Queen of the Grand Trail Riders. She was awarded the title by outgoing queen Cindy Montgomery. In addition to Dean, Janelle Sherva was named Princess, while Karen Duncan earned the title of Junior Princess.
Kathy, an eighth grader at Northwood School, has been riding competitively for four years and shows registered Quarter Horses. She is active in two 4-H clubs and will represent her riding club at several events throughout the year, including the upcoming Crookston Winter Shows from February 26-28, 1971.
To celebrate the day’s achievements, participants and club members were invited to a potluck supper at the home of Dr. Thomas Schafer, fostering a sense of community following the spirited competitions.
The enthusiasm displayed by the equestrians and the support from their families highlighted the strong bonds within the Grand Trail Riders Club, showcasing a unique blend of competition and community spirit.
