Hermiston’s Paytyn Hayda crowned Miss Teen Rodeo Oregon
By Griffin Beach on Monday, March 2nd, 2026 in Columbia Basin News More Top Stories
PENDLETON – Hermiston’s Paytyn Hayda was crowned at a coronation ceremony Saturday as 2026 Miss Teen Rodeo Oregon.
Before 2025 Miss Teen Rodeo Katie Kilcullen presented the crown to Hayda, she spoke about getting to know her over the last year.
“She has gained so much confidence, and it’s been such a joy to watch her journey,” Kilcullen said. “I cannot tell you how proud I am of her.”
Hayda spoke after receiving the crown and became emotional when thanking those who supported her journey.
“I can’t thank everybody who’s here enough for being my people and being there to support me,” she said. “No matter how small, or big, or where you come from, you can always accomplish your dreams.”
Hayda is a junior at Hermiston High School, where she is a member of the HHS equestrian team and an active member of FFA. She is also dual-enrolled in college courses through Blue Mountain Community College.
She plans to attend the University of Tennessee to major in forensic anthropology and criminology.
Hayda’s fellow titleholders this year are Miss Rodeo Oregon Destiny Wecks of Joseph, Junior Miss Rodeo Oregon Kieran Kossler-Sutherlin of Prineville, and Little Miss Rodeo Oregon Lynlee Jo Perini of Cottage Grove.
According to the Miss Rodeo Oregon website, Hayda is the first Miss Rodeo Oregon titleholder in any category from Hermiston.
Paytyn Hayda speaks at her coronation ceremony Saturday in Hermiston
