Meet Katherine Merck.
With a finance degree from the University of Notre Dame and a law degree from Gonzaga University School of Law, you won't find a more educated cowgirl. Katherine Merck is an entrepreneur, cowgirl, influencer, attorney, and speaker who is dedicated to uplifting other women through her movement #CowgirlsforKindness.
The founder of Rodeo Advantage, the first and only comprehensive rodeo consulting business serving rodeo committees, rodeo contestants, and rodeo queens, Katherine won the title of Miss Rodeo America 2016 less than two years after entering her first rodeo queen pageant. A Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association timer, rodeo committee member, and rodeo athlete, Katherine sits on numerous boards including the Miss Rodeo America National Advisory Council and the Miss Rodeo Idaho, Inc. Board of Directors.
Katherine advocates for the agricultural industry in all areas of her life. Licensed to practice law in Idaho, Montana, and Wyoming, her practice focuses on legal issues involving property rights, tax and estate planning, local and federal government involvement, and other areas of law affecting ranchers, farmers, and other landowners.
Recognition & Honors
Cowgirl Magazine's 30 Under 30
Recognized as a leading woman in the Western industry.
2019 RockN W Report Girl Boss Awards
Nominated in four categories and winner of Cowgirl CEO
PRCA Contract Personnel - Timer
Selected to time 2020 Circuit Finals Rodeo and 2019 Steer Roping Circuit Finals Rodeo
Personality Winner
First Miss Rodeo America from Washington
Miss Rodeo Washington 2015
Appearance Award Horsemanship Award
Knowledge Award Personality Award
Presentation Award Speech Award
Washington State House of Representatives Resolution 2016-4659
United States House of Representative Congressional Recognition, 2015
Miss Spokane Interstate Rodeo 2014
Horsemanship Award Photogenic Award
Written Test Award
Miss Rodeo Idaho, Inc.
Advisory Board Member
Gem State Stampede
Rodeo Committee Member
Miss Rodeo America National Advisory Council
Co-Chair of Media Committee &
Rodeo Royalty Seminar 2017, 2018
Columbia River Circuit Finals Rodeo
Rodeo Performance Openings &
Queen Coordinator 2017, 2018
Cervi Championship Rodeo
Pivot Girl Coordinator at Rodeo Houston 2017, 2018
American Quarter Horse Association
Lifetime Member, Reining & Ranch Riding Competitor
National Reining Horse Association
Competitor since 2003