By Lindsey Rowland
lrowland@wbcowqel.com

The British Empire may have a new prince, but Bucyrus has a new queen of its Bratwurst Festival – Queen Courtney Walsh. Walsh was crowned at the annual queen’s pageant Thursday on the opening night of the festival.

The new queen was more than just a little bit excited about her crown and reign over the 46th Bratwurst Festival.

“I don’t know. I still have to talk to the past queen and find out what I’m really in for,” Walsh said. “I have no idea. I’m – oh gosh – I didn’t expect this at all. I’m so happy.”

queen courtney

Seven contestants had a long day. It began with interviews in the afternoon, moved onto riding through the parade, and finally ending in front of the audience and emcees Bob and Linda Durtschi to model their German dirndls, be interviewed, and answer a fishbowl question.

The contestants were well attended to by the newly crowned 2013 princess 2nd runner-up Kendra Blizzard, 1st runner-up Melanie Johnson, and Princess Addison Kemery . All seven contestants carried themselves so well that the judges ended up taking quite a while to make their final decisions.

While the judges were deliberating, the local singing group United in Harmony, who have performed all over Ohio, including at games for the Indians, Cavs, and Clippers, entertained the crowd with such songs as “Still of the Night” and “New York, New York”.

Following their performance, the outgoing queens gave their farewells. Through both tears and smiles, 2nd attendant Amanda Mutchler, 1st attendant Kimberly Adams, and Queen Danyelle Whitmore all reflected on a memorable year and received their scholarships.

Finally, the moment for opening the envelopes arrived. First, Stormy Ferney was named Miss Congeniality by her fellow contestants. Ferney then went on win 2nd attendant, Kaiden Wilson was named 1st attendant, and finally Walsh was crowned queen.

The queens will be spending time at the festival for the next two days partaking in the events as they start their reign.

A photo gallery from the first day of the festival is available on the Photo page.