NOTCHING up the number of participants well into the teens, local lass Jade Davies is one of the latest to enter the Warwick Rose and Rodeo quest.

The 13-year-old Warwick State High School student has entered the rodeo junior cowgirl section this year, which will be her fourth time.

"The first time I didn't place, the second time my appendix ruptured two days before and last year I won the horsemanship category," Jade said.

"I just love the Warwick Rodeo - I do barrel racing with my horse called T-bone."

Jade has been in the saddle since she was two years old and has been riding T-bone for two years. She is a member of the Cunningham Pony Club and says she loves the thrill of barrel racing.

"It's the speed - it's exhilarating except when you smash into a barrel and fall off," she said.

"Although I've not had any serious ones. I've had a few but nothing serious."

Parents Angela and Ian Davies have accepted the time and financial upshots associated with any form of horse sport, and say they just enjoy seeing their daughter enjoy herself.

"Most weekends I do gymkhanas and I've just competed in the state championships for the pony club in Chinchilla, where I got 12th," Jade said.

Jade said she was looking forward to another Miss Rodeo quest, including making new friends and having the excuse to buy new clothes - although she is keeping her shirt a closely guarded secret.

"I love socialising with all the girls, meeting new people and dressing up," she said.

"I want to keep my outfit a surprise - but it's a very stand-out, bright colour."