Cave Creek Rodeo Royalty

Jaelee Mernaugh is a 19‑year‑old from Gilbert, Arizona, who graduated high school with her cosmetology license and is now pursuing a business degree at Chandler‑Gilbert Community College. She hopes to combine both fields to one day open her own salon specializing in color and extensions. Deeply rooted in the western and rodeo community, Jaelee performs with the Copper State Renegades drill team and competes in gymkhanas. Her faith and heart for service guide much of her life. She volunteers in her church’s baby room, participates in Feed My Starving Children events, and makes blankets for the homeless. In her free time, she enjoys crocheting, artsy projects, spending time with family and friends, and working at a children’s hair salon.

Braelyn Strait is a 15-year-old freshman who has grown up in the rodeo and western community, where hard work and strong values guide daily life. Raised in the roping pen, she now competes in barrel racing and pole bending while continuing to expand her skills. Rodeo has shaped her character, teaching her discipline, sportsmanship, and dedication. Braelyn is passionate about rodeo queening as a way to lead, serve, and represent cowboy traditions. She is active in FFA, showing goats, competing in Livestock Judging and Ag Sales, and serving as the 2025–2026 Buckeye FFA Greenhand Secretary. She also volunteers regularly, supporting local events, fundraisers, and community programs.

Brooke Jones is a 12‑year‑old second‑generation cowgirl from Snowflake, Arizona, who loves the western way of life. She competes in Jr. Rodeo and 4‑H with her trusted 18‑year‑old mare, Shiver. Brooke has shown both pigs and horses at the Navajo County Fair for six years and recently earned Grand Champion titles in Western Pleasure and Pole Bending at the State 4‑H Horse Show. Outside the arena, she enjoys puzzles, sewing, reading, audiobooks, and spending time with friends. She is also active in sports, including soccer, basketball, and track, and treasures family time, especially playing card games after dinner.