Meet the 2026 Ramona Rodeo Queen: Representing Tradition, Community and the Western Way of Life
2026 Ramona Rodeo Queen Stella Erb shares what makes rodeo special.
The Ramona Rodeo is more than three nights of rodeo competition. For many in the community, it is a celebration of Western heritage, local tradition, family and the people who come together year after year to make the event possible.
This year, as the Ramona Rodeo celebrates its 45th annual rodeo August 27–29, two young women will have the special honor of representing the community as the 2026 Ramona Rodeo Queen, Stella Erb, and Junior Queen, Carrie Vincent.
For both queens, wearing the crown is about much more than a title. It is an opportunity to represent the rodeo, connect with the community and encourage the next generation to embrace the Western lifestyle.
Being crowned the 2026 Ramona Rodeo Queen was an emotional moment for Stella Erb.
“When I was crowned the 2026 Ramona Rodeo Queen, I was overwhelmed with joy and happy tears, too!” Stella said. “Rodeo Queen competitions require immense amounts of work and being able to take home the title is extremely rewarding.”
The Ramona Rodeo holds a special place in Stella’s heart. Many of the friends and cowgirls she looks up to have previously held the title, making the opportunity to follow in their footsteps especially meaningful.
The rodeo community has also helped Stella grow personally.
“At 10 years old, I had no idea what would be in store for me,” she said. “Naturally I’m an introvert, but through my experience as a rodeo queen, I’ve pushed myself outside of my comfort zone whether it’s in the arena, on stage, or conversing with others.”
Stella’s own experience as a rodeo athlete has given her an appreciation for what happens behind the scenes and a deeper understanding of the competitors she represents. She has competed in the California Junior Rodeo Association and has participated in team roping, including being named the 2025 Team Roping Champion Header in the CJRA. Team roping is her favorite event.
“I find it so fascinating that all five different minds work together to make it happen; from the steer to me and my horse, and to my partner and his horse!” Stella said.
She has also had the opportunity to rope on live television for KUSI and compete in her first PRCA rodeos. For Stella, rodeo is about more than competition.
“The friendships I’ve made through the sport will last a lifetime,” she said. “I’m so thankful for everyone I’ve crossed paths with along the way.”
Being a rodeo queen also means giving back to the community that helped shape Stella. The Ramona Rodeo Foundation supports the community through its events, with the Ramona Rodeo serving as one of its largest annual celebrations.
“The community has shaped me into who I am today and I’m so grateful for the opportunity to give back,” Stella said.
Balancing her responsibilities as a student, rodeo athlete and queen requires plenty of discipline. She maintains straight A’s while taking AP and honors classes, practices to perform her best in the roping arena and makes time to represent the rodeo throughout the community.
Even with a busy schedule, she wouldn't trade the experience.
“I wouldn’t trade it for the world,” Stella said, adding that she is grateful for the family and friends who support her through the “wild ride.”
During the 45th Annual Ramona Rodeo, Stella will help bring this year's special theme nights to life. Thursday will recognize Native American heritage and celebrate the community's neighboring tribes at Barona and Pala. Friday will be the Golden Circle of Champions night, raising awareness for pediatric cancer and giving back to those in need. Saturday will celebrate Patriotism, honoring those who have served the country with a red, white and blue celebration.
Looking toward the future, Stella hopes to see women’s team roping become part of PRCA rodeos and dreams of one day traveling the rodeo trail and competing on a larger scale.
“Representing the toughest sport on dirt is an amazing experience and I hope to continue being an ambassador for the sport I love the most,” Stella said.
When her year representing the Ramona Rodeo comes to an end, Stella wants to be remembered for the work, enthusiasm and heart she brought to her title.
The 45th Annual Ramona Rodeo takes place August 27–29. Grab your boots, bring your family and friends, and come support the rodeo queens and the community they proudly represent.
Photo Courtesy of Stella Erb.
