Young trick rider carries 'Old Glory'

REARDAN – A local girl is sure to be among the show-stoppers this weekend at the Cheney Rodeo.

Laramie Gray, 8, whose family ranches north of Reardan is expected to bring the crowd on its feet during grand entry when she proudly carries "Old Glory" during grand entry Friday and Saturday atop her Palomino, Big Easy.

Professional Rodeo Cowboy Association performances are set for Friday, Saturday and Sunday. Several local riders were also set to ride during slack Thursday evening. Slack comprises additional riders competing in the rodeo, but did not get selected to ride in the main performances due to a large turnout.

Gray is also a trick rider and barrel racer. Her skills in rodeo come from a strong family tradition.

She inherits her riding talents from both her father, Ryan Gray, and her mother, Lacy Gray, who also rode in numerous rodeos.

Lacy Gray attributes much of her daughter's skill and passion to the influence of trick rider Riley McMillan of the Odessa/Soap Lake area. McMillan coaches young Laramie and serves as a significant role model for the young rider.

McMillan is also known for carrying presenting the "stars and stripes" during rodeo grand entries around the region, including Ritzville.

The young Gray enjoys watching McMillan perform and learns a great deal from her expertise and experience, her mother said, noting Laramie began her journey into trick riding at age 3.

Her early start allowed her to develop her skills and gain confidence in the arena. Since then, she has become a seasoned performer, carrying the American flag at several rodeos, a role that fills her with pride and excitement.

Gray's training and natural talent have made her a standout in the junior rode circuit, where she has been competing for a few years. Among all her activities, trick riding remains her favorite event. When asked about the honor of carrying the U.S. flag at the rodeo this weekend, Gray's response was simple yet heartfelt: "Cool." This single word captures her excitement and the sense of pride she feels in being part of such a big event.

Grays' journey in rodeo is strongly supported by her family. Her father has a significant legacy in the rodeo world, and her mother has also made her mark. With the Gray family's deep connection to rodeo ensures that young Gray has the guidance and encouragement she will need to excel.

Gray's participation as the Grand Entry in the 2024 Rodeo is a testament to her hard work, dedication, and fearless drive gives her the tools to grow more in rodeo world. Her ability to handle the pressure of performing in front of large crowds at such a young age is commendable and speaks volumes about her potential.

The honor of being chosen for such a prestigious role highlights the confidence that the Rodeo association has in her abilities and her promising future.

Gray's inclusion as the Grand Entry in the 2024 Rodeo is a significant milestone in her young career. Her passion for trick riding, combined with her family's legacy and support, positions her as a rising star in the rodeo world.