2015 Sisters Rodeo Poster Artist: Boldness of History

Mikaela Koellermeier, 19, is the reigning queen of the 2015 Sisters Rodeo. A former queen of La Pine Rodeo and Crooked River Roundup, Koellermeier rides her mare, Dutch, who is an image of speed and superb execution.

“Even though my family has been attending Sisters Rodeo my whole life, I did not imagine becoming a rodeo queen until 2011, when I served as a princess of Rimrock Riders,” she explained. “That inspired me to try out for La Pine Rodeo in 2012 and Crooked River Roundup in 2013. Being a princess opened my mind to a totally different world.”

Koellermeier’s love for the setting of Sisters Rodeo and the enthusiasm of its fans were the influences that fueled her desire to become part of the tradition. The year her dad caught a football from the celebrated barrelman/clown JJ Harrison during Sisters Rodeo enriched the attraction by making her feel a part of the excitement.

Her father, Doug, is a 33-year member of Bend Fire Department, who serves as deputy chief. Her mother, Leslie, owns a dog kennel, where Koellermeier learned the responsibilities of animal care from the time she could walk.

As a member of the Oregon High School Equestrian Team at Mountain View High School, Mikaela was part of a team that won the Oregon State Team Penning Championship in 2013.

Carol Stiles, the executive director of The Center Foundation, for whom Koellermeier has been a family nanny and house sitter throughout her teen years, responded to the choice warmly.

“I couldn’t be more happy for Sisters Rodeo,” Stiles exclaimed. “The judges selected an outstanding person to serve as a representative who will make the rodeo and the community proud.”

“I am so honored to represent Sisters Rodeo,” Koellermeier said in quiet amazement. “This is my opportunity to give back to the community while I share my excitement about the tradition of Sisters Rodeo.”

— Courtesy of Bonnie Malone, Sisters Rodeo