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Lainey Zarazua of St. Hedwig is one of three young women from the San Antonio area who will serve as San Antonio Stock Show & Rodeo Cowgirl Cavvietta for 2026-27. COURTESY/San Antonio Stock Show & Rodeo
Lainey Zarazua of St. Hedwig is one of three successful applicants to earn distinction as a 2026-27 San Antonio Stock Show & Rodeo Cowgirl Cavvietta.
The 18-year-old has dedicated more than five years to rodeo and barrel racing, competing and earning placements at high school and youth rodeos throughout Texas and beyond.
As a Cowgirl Cavvietta, Lainey is proud to represent the San Antonio Stock Show & Rodeo and give back to the community that has played such an important role in shaping her life. Through her passion for rodeo, she hopes to inspire others, support the western lifestyle, and help carry its traditions forward.
The San Antonio Stock Show & Rodeo Cowgirl Cavvietta is a leadership, ambassador, and scholarship program designed to empower young women who embody the grit, grace, and traditions of the western way of life.
Derived from the western ranching term “cavvy,” meaning a trusted remuda of horses relied upon by cowboys each day, “Cavvietta” reflects the strength, reliability, and heritage rooted in the South Texas ranching tradition.
As ambassadors of the Rodeo, Cavvietta Cowgirls serve their community through outreach, volunteerism, mentorship, and advocacy for agriculture and education while preserving the values and traditions that define western heritage.
The program is open to women ages 18-25, who are residents of Texas as of Jan. 1 in their application year. Applicants should demonstrate exemplary conduct, strong character, and a commitment to serving as a positive ambassador in the arena and throughout the community.
Participants are expected to maintain good academic standing, exhibit professionalism at public appearances, and uphold the highest standards of horsemanship and sportsmanship. The role requires poise, confidence, and the ability to engage audiences of all ages while proudly representing the organization.
Serving the Rodeo community is an incredible opportunity and offers internal fulfillment, but also upon completion of service, the selected ambassadors will be awarded a $10,000 scholarship to further their education.
Two other successful applicants join Lainey as Cavvietta Cowgirls — Emily Halsey of Bandera and Cassie Moore of Helotes.