At just 16 years old, DelShay Henio has learned that life is better when you stay in the saddle and keep riding forward.
DelShay, a junior at Tohatchi High School from Naschitti, New Mexico, was recently named Ramah Navajo Fair and Rodeo Queen 2026. For her, the title means more than just wearing a crown. It gives her a chance to share her love for rodeo, inspire young hearts, and reflect the values that have shaped her.
“My inspiration comes from the love of the sport of rodeo, the western way of life, and the values of hard work, grit, and responsibility,” Henio shared.
As Ramah Rodeo Queen, Henio has stepped into the boots of an ambassador and educator for the sport. She will ride in grand entries, carry the flag on horseback during opening ceremonies, engage with fans around the arena, and help present awards during events. She has already started making media appearances and attending meet-and-greets. She will be traveling across New Mexico to rodeos and joining local parades, opening doors to meet new people and share her love for rodeo far and wide.
Most of all, Henio is excited to support and encourage the next generation of rodeo contestants. She wants to use her platform to mentor young people and welcome them into the world of rodeo. She also aims to teach the public about horsemanship and the rich history of rodeo.
Henio has been around horses and rodeo life from an early age. Her love for rodeo spans events such as barrel racing, pole bending, goat tying, breakaway roping, and bull riding. She has competed as a steer rider herself, and with a brother who is a bullfighter, bull riding holds a special thrill for her.
Outside the rodeo arena, Henio is a dedicated student-athlete who plays volleyball and basketball. After high school, she plans to study equine science, blending her passion for animals with her commitment to lifelong learning.
Through every challenge and triumph, her family has been the bedrock of her success. They have offered encouragement, helped her travel the rodeo circuit, and cheered her on as her biggest and loudest fans. Their support has helped shape the path she follows today.
Her message to young people is one of perseverance, faith, family, and self-respect.
“Stay in school, pray, and love your family and animals,” Henio encourages. “Wear your crown proudly. Mistakes will happen in life; shake it off, adjust your saddle, and keep riding forward. Respect yourself.”
For Henio, wearing the crown is not about being perfect. Instead, it means being willing to learn, lead, encourage others, and keep going even when things get tough.
As the new Ramah Rodeo Queen, she is ready to ride forward and do just that.
