Mary Powell of Longton, Kan., and Kye Rieff of Diamond, Mo., claimed the titles of champion cowboy poets in the humorous and serious poem categories, respectively, at the 2023 Kansas Cowboy Poetry Contest. The finals of the Kansas contest were held June 9 in Manhattan, Kan.

Three poets rose to the top of the placings in both the serious and humorous categories:

The cowboy poets were evaluated by a panel of celebrity judges, including Lawton Nuss, former Kansas Supreme Court chief justice; state Rep. Kenny Titus; Mark Hatesohl, Manhattan mayor; and Janet Bailey, president and CEO of the Kansas Dairy Association. Musical entertainment was provided by Jeff Davidson and Brad Hamilton.

Twelve finalists advanced from qualifying regional contests in Hays, Kan., and Fredonia, Kan., this spring. Ron Wilson, poetry contest chairman, reported that cowboy poets from Kansas, Missouri and Texas were represented in the 17 total entries. Other finalists included:

State champions in each category received the Saddlejack Bradrick Award; the Governor’s Belt Buckle; gift certificates from Western wear stores; free membership in the International Western Music Association, Kansas Chapter; and two tickets to the Symphony in the Flint Hills programs.

For more information, visit bit.ly/2023kancowboypoetry.

Source: Kansas Cowboy Poetry Contest