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The Montana Circuit Finals Rodeo returns to the Four Seasons Arena in Great Falls this week, and contestants for Miss Rodeo Montana and Miss Teen Rodeo Montana showed off their horsemanship skills on Thursday afternoon.

Throughout the competition, contestants are judged in appearance, personality, projection and presentation, and horsemanship.

Miss Rodeo 2009, Leslie Furniss, said the the judges are looking for a well-rounded ambassador that will be able to handle the work and travel schedule.

She says she got involved in the competition after her boyfriend, a rodeo competitor, died in a car accident.

Furniss said, "The most important thing I've learned is to literally enjoy every day. I mean, when my boyfriend passed away I learned how precious life is. With the title of Miss Rodeo Montana, you only have one chance, you only have one year, you have to put everything into it that you possibly can and you have to enjoy it because it's only one time in your life."

The next event will be on Friday at the Holiday Inn, where each contestant will give a two-minute prepared speech about Montana.

On Saturday there will be the Pro Rodeo Style Show which will also include visiting royalty and some Montana Circuit barrel racers.

For more information, visit the Pro Rodeo website.