Girls of the West

The Girls of the West story is about our young Rodeo Ambassador, and how she helps promote “the western way of life and the western-type American girl” at our Pikes Peak or Bust Rodeo and other events. Meet the Girls of the West:

Brooke Soltwedel—Girl of the West

2023 Girl of the West, Brooke Soltwedel, is the 19-year-old daughter of Ray Soltwedel and Rachel Morgan. She grew up doing ranch work and competing in speed and show events under the Western discipline. She has also served as an ambassador for other equine organizations and has worked with therapy horses.

Brooke is currently working toward a nursing degree at Pikes Peak Community College, after which she plans to work as a scrub nurse while attending medical school to study neurosurgery with a focus on children with special needs. Brooke currently holds her license as a Certified Nurses Assistant and Basic Life Support Provider—she is employed by UCHealth and works on the surgical trauma unit at the Level One trauma center hospital here in Colorado Springs.

The Pikes Peak or Bust Rodeo and its mission is near and dear to Brooke. Her sister figure, whom her family took in, is currently serving in the United States Air Force. Brooke is eager for the opportunity to give back to the military community and serve those who serve us during her time as Girl of the West.

Brooke rides a Quarter Horse gelding named Duke.

Makena Norton—Aide to Girl of the West

2023 Aide to Girl of the West, Makena Norton, is the 19-year-old daughter of Jeff Norton and Kristen Norton, and sibling to Maddy Norton. She has been involved in many realms of the equestrian community including the Colorado Hunter Jumper Association, Interscholastic Equestrian Association, and a member of the Pikes Peak Rangerettes. She also served as the 2022 El Paso County Fair Queen.

Makena is studying Agricultural Communications at the University of Wyoming. She hopes to have a career in which she can incorporate rodeo into her area of study. When not at school, Makena spends her downtime with her family and dogs, and riding her horses.

The mission of the Pikes Peak or Bust Rodeo is near and dear to Makena’s heart as her grandfather served in the United States Air Force. She is grateful to be a part of an organization that has proudly donated its proceeds to help service members and their families in the Pikes Peak region since 1946.

Makena rides her sorrel Quarter Horse gelding named Herbi.