Emma C. Brungardt, the 2024 Miss Teen Rodeo Kansas, tragically lost her life in a single-vehicle accident in rural Thomas County, Kansas. The incident occurred on a Friday night at approximately 9:44 p.m. on County Road 21. Brungardt, who was just 19 years old and hailing from Blue Rapids, died at the scene of the crash, which also involved five others, including her rodeo teammates from the Colby Community College (CCC) Rodeo Team. The collision saw the group, consisting of an 18-year-old man from Flagler, Colorado, and four other young adults—two from Larned and Newton and one from Council Grove—sustaining injuries that required their transport to Citizens Medical Center in Colby for treatment.
The accident reportedly occurred at a Y intersection when the driver lost control of their 2007 Ford F-250 truck, which ended up crashing into a tree row. According to a Kansas Highway Patrol report, the vehicle came to rest upright, facing south. The Wyoming Highway Patrol’s investigation revealed that the combination of youth and potential driver inexperience could have contributed to the unfortunate mishap. In the wake of this devastating loss, the CCC Rodeo Team expressed their grief through social media, highlighting Brungardt’s impact on her teammates and the broader rodeo community. They described her as a “sweet soul” who not only uplifted others but also embodied the spirit of positivity and hard work.
Brungardt’s legacy extended far beyond this tragic incident; she was not only a talented athlete on the CCC Rodeo Team but also a beloved figure known for her charisma and dedication to the sport. The Miss Rodeo Kansas Pageant organization paid tribute to her immense contributions to the rodeo community, reflecting on her poise and exemplary character. Followers and friends echoed these sentiments through heartfelt comments, illustrating the indelible mark she had made on everyone around her. Many praised her horsemanship, kindness towards others, and her approach to life, demonstrating how deeply she touched the lives of both her peers and mentors.
As a standout in multiple rodeo events, including goat tying, breakaway roping, and team roping, Brungardt was recognized not only for her skills but also for her unwavering commitment to the sport. She became involved with rodeo from a young age, lifting her educational experience at Valley Heights USD 498 through scholarships to attend CCC. Her journey in rodeo was complemented by several achievements, including her involvement in the Kansas High School Rodeo Association, where she competed fiercely. This dedication earned her positions of honor, like winning the Grand Champion of the Kansas Wild Horse Youth Challenge in both 2019 and 2021, and her contributions to the FFA program during high school solidified her role as an influential member of her community.
In honoring Emma’s life, her peers have highlighted the authentic essence of her character—the remarkable qualities that defined her impact both within and outside the rodeo arena. Friends and fellow competitors remembered her infectious spirit, vast knowledge of horsemanship, and her genuine compassion for everyone she encountered. As tributes poured in from both the rodeo community and beyond, it became clear that her absence would be deeply felt, with many recalling personal anecdotes that showcased her significant influence. The immense loss resonates not only as a personal tragedy for her family and friends but also reflects the broader community that cherished her presence.
As the community mourns the loss of an inspiring young woman, they rally together to celebrate her memory. Emma’s passionate spirit and the commitment she exhibited toward her passions serve as a reminder of the empowerment inherent in the rodeo culture and the bonds it fosters. This tragic event has imparted a somber lesson about the fragility of life, yet it has also opened up dialogues surrounding safety and the importance of community support during times of grief. Emma C. Brungardt’s light is one that the rodeo world will strive to keep shining, reflecting the love and respect she earned throughout her life and career in the sport.
