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Arave, Karen

Class of 2025

Born and raised in Idaho Falls, Karen Arave (née Jenson) grew up horseback—from riding her family’s horse Bally to school, to reigning as Jefferson County Rodeo Queen not once, but twice. In 1960, she wore the War Bonnet Roundup Rodeo Queen crown and won horsemanship at Caldwell while representing Miss Rodeo Idaho Falls.

Karen didn’t just ride; she lived the western way. She helped organize queen contests, trained top-tier barrel horses, and carried Old Glory in grand entries for Idaho rodeos. Alongside husband Neal, she helped build eastern Idaho’s first indoor arena, giving high school rodeo teams and ropers a place to sharpen their skills year-round.

From barrel racing in Mackay to mentoring young riders, Karen’s Idaho legacy runs deep in the dirt and true in the heart. Even today, at 83, she’s still saddled up and swinging a rope.

Welcome to the Hall, Karen—you’ve earned your spot among Idaho’s rodeo greats. 🤠🏆

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© 2023 by Idaho Rodeo Hall of Fame

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