A record number of contestants stepped up, showed off and made it very hard to look away at the 2026 Sturgis Buffalo Chip Poster Model Search semifinals. With 55 contestants lighting up the stage at 707 Nightlife in Rapid City, the competition was fierce and the judges had their work cut out for them. Now, 27 finalists are moving on to the next round at Robbinsdale Lounge on May 2, 2026. Thanks to sponsors Twisted Tea, Cassio’s Tattoo Gallery, Mr. Liquor, Pepsi, Sailor Jerry, Sturgis Harley-Davidson and XROCK, one winner will walk away with over $18,000 in cash and prizes and a year in the spotlight representing the number one Sturgis Rally destination as the face of the Best Party Anywhere®.

MEET THE 2026 POSTER MODEL SEARCH FINALISTS!

Akisha C.
Age: 29
Occupation: Bartender
Qualifying Bar: Cowboy Back Bar
From: Rapid City, SD

Have you ever attended a concert at the Buffalo Chip? If so, what was it?
I’ve worked AND attended numerous concerts since moving to the Black Hills, I think I lost count!

Who’s one person you’d be starstruck by if you got to meet them?
Macho Man Randy Savage (RIP)

What’s your favorite way to break the ice with someone you just met?
My favorite way to break the ice with someone is to make them laugh, particularly to make fun of myself, because I feel people let their guard down when they realize you don’t take yourself too seriously.

Why do you want to be the 2026 Buffalo Chip Poster Model?
The Chip has been a part of my heart and soul since I first moved to the Black Hills. The amazing things you get to do and see when you’re a part of the Best Party Anywhere — is not even comparable to anything I’ve ever done. The things that the Chip advocates for, it’s so much more than the rally, it also includes advocacy, charity work, veteran support and not to mention it’s the best time you can even imagine in the middle of a field in Sodak!

 

Alex A.
Age: 24
Occupation: Professional Emcee and Sales Associate
Qualifying Bar: Robbinsdale Lounge
From: Box Elder, SD

Who’s one person you’d be starstruck by if you got to meet them?
Robert Patrick hands down. When I learned that I just barely missed him at the same gas station by a few minutes, I cried a little bit.

If you could be a rockstar for a day, who would you be, and why?
I would have to say Stevie Wonder. I’ve always wondered what it was like to experience life without one of my senses, and the fact that he was blind made his music FEEL so much more real, and I think that’s really cool.

What is the best thing that has ever happened to you?
It would have to be my mom meeting my stepdad. Without him I wouldn’t have grown up an Army brat, I wouldn’t have experienced all of the things that I have in life. I wouldn’t have learned how to navigate change as well as I have. It’s definitely taught patience within the family as well. Without the military, I would not have the same confidence and willpower to tackle new situations head on!

Why do you want to be the 2026 Buffalo Chip Poster Model?
The fact that I’m even considered is an honor, I want to be the Poster Model in honor and in memory of Allen Rose. He was one of my parents’ closest friends while I grew up in Colorado. Unfortunately, he was in an accident while working and lost his life. His kids ride in honor of him, and I would love to win in honor of his family. To say thanks for keeping on going through life with us to this day.

 

Alex J.
Age: 22
Occupation: Vet Tech at the Emergency Vet Hospital
Qualifying Bar: Joe’s Place
From: Rapid City, SD

If you could hold any world record, what would you want it to be, and why?
Owning the biggest national animal preserve so that I could work towards saving as many species as possible.

What’s your favorite way to break the ice with someone you just met?
I like to ask about what kind of animals they own or have owned

Can you tell us about a time when you took a risk and it paid off?
I took a risk by kicking my ex-boyfriend to the curb, and I had a great time at the 2025 Sturgis Rally.

Who is the person who’s been the biggest influence on your life? Why?
My dad, because he has taught me all I know about building demolition derby cars.

 

Ambrosia A.
Age: 21
Occupation: Server
Qualifying Bar: Grinners Bar
From: Gillette, WY 

Describe your fantasy motorcycle ride.
Nice calm evening, weeping willows all around, allowing the wind to take me anywhere.

If you could be a rockstar for a day, who would you be, and why?
Freddy Mercury because his music reached many and he could reunite the world with 1 song.

Name one experience that’s on your bucket list.
See a Broadway show.

Who is the person who’s been the biggest influence on your life? Why?
My mom, because she is a person who has had many challenging things happen, but out of all of it, she still chooses to be kind, give to others, put everyone before herself.

Britt B.
Age: 27
Occupation: Bartender
Qualifying Bar: Deadwood Tobacco Company
From: Spearfish, SD

What is your favorite hobby?
My favorite hobby is traveling! Cruises, flying, driving, trying new foods and adventures in other states and countries are my biggest passion!

Where do you go when you want to have fun and cut loose?
We take a trip to Beulah, WY and go tubing and camping out in Sand Creek! Spending time with friends over a bonfire and just be in the outdoors away from the world for a while.

If you could hold any world record, what would you want it to be, and why? 
I would hold the world record for the hot dog eating contest! To battle Joey Chestnut and win would be a highlight in my life.

Who is the person who’s been the biggest influence on your life? Why?
My momma, my entire life, she has loved and supported all of my goals and dreams, she has worked multiple jobs and busted her ass to give me the best life she could, and help me be the best person I can be. On good and bad days, she’s always had my back, even when she never agreed with me or my decisions. She gave me the chance to discover who I am, and even from across the states, she still looks out for me on a daily!

Cater L.
Age: 34
Occupation: Safety & Training Supervisor
Qualifying Bar: Robbinsdale Lounge
From: Rapid City, SD

Where do you go when you want to have fun and cut loose?
Nothing better than a good concert to sing and dance the night away!

Do you have any secret talents? If so, what are they?
Too many to count! I can fix your garage door or crochet you a sweater.

If you won the lottery tomorrow, what’s the first thing you’d do?
Buy a garage for the bikes I’m about to buy!

What is the best thing that has ever happened to you?
Learned to ride a motorcycle

Cayla K.
Age: 24
Occupation: Bartender and Cocktail Waitress
Qualifying Bar: Robbinsdale Lounge
From: Lead, SD

What is your favorite hobby?
My favorite hobby is going thrifting and collecting vintage items from the 1960’s and 1970’s. If I’m not doing that, I’m tending to my plants indoors or planting new ones! 

Have you ever attended a concert at the Buffalo Chip? If so, what was it? 
I saw one of my favorite bands, Stone Temple Pilots, last year in VIP! I got to meet them, and it was one of the best days of my life!! Even caught myself a guitar pick!!

If you could be a rockstar for a day, who would you be, and why?
If I were a rockstar for a day, I’d choose to be Stevie Nicks in the 70’s or 80’s. Her music has always been timeless and so meaningful to me. She’s just such a rad chick!

What is the best thing that has ever happened to you? 
Honestly, the best thing that has ever happened to me was signing up for the Poster Model competition 3 years ago. I was so shy and timid my first year and didn’t really know how to go about making friends, but by the end of the year, I kept getting more confident! The girls and the friendships I’ve made over the years here is what truly makes this special. I’ve made so many genuine friends and can truly say I hope to keep them for the rest of my life!

Dawn H.
Age: 34
Occupation: Stylist
Qualifying Bar: Valley Sports Bar
From: Rapid City, SD

Do you have any secret talents? If so, what are they?
Although I don’t have any note-worthy talents; I can still remember every awkward interaction I’ve ever had with anyone like it happened yesterday, and yet I can never remember where I put my car keys.

If you could hold any world record, what would you want it to be, and why?
I would love to hold the world record for oldest woman alive, just so I can give absurd answers as to how I’ve managed to live so long.

What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever received? 
“If you’re the smartest person in the room, you’re in the wrong room.”

Why do you want to be the 2026 Buffalo Chip Poster Model? 
From my very first experience at the Chip as a kid, I knew this was where I belonged. That early spark has grown into a deep respect for the culture and the massive impact the Buffalo Chip has on the biking community, especially its dedication to veterans and women riders. Representing the Chip as the 2026 Poster Model would be a true full circle moment, and I would be honored to represent the heart of Sturgis and welcome the next generation of riders home.

Emma H.
Age: 24
Occupation: Welder / Ranch Hand / Bartender
Qualifying Bar: J Bar
From: Rapid City, SD

 Where do you go when you want to have fun and cut loose?
Always the lake. Bikinis. Sunburns. Twisted tea. Paddle boards. Music. What more could you want?

Name one experience that’s on your bucket list.
I want to visit all 50 states! And see the best that every state has to offer nature wise. Like the Redwoods in CA. The Needles in SD. The Grand Canyon, and so on.

What is the best thing that has ever happened to you?
Accidentally walking into my high school welding class after school one day. It opened my eyes to a whole other world of work and possibilities.

Why do you want to be the 2026 Buffalo Chip Poster Model?
I’ve lived in South Dakota my whole life. Been riding my own bike since I was 14. I’ve been to the rally. I’ve worked the rally. Now I want to represent and promote it!

Frincess T.
Age: 29
Occupation: Home Health
Qualifying Bar: Moose Lodge
From: Rapid City, SD

If you could be a rockstar for a day, who would you be, and why?
I would be Lainey Wilson for a day because she represents confidence, authenticity, and fearless freedom. As someone new to America, I admire how she stays true to herself while owning every stage with strength and pride.

If you could hold any world record, what would you want it to be, and why?I
If I could hold a world record, it would be for being the first new American to travel into motorcycle culture and represent freedom on a global stage through a Buffalo Chip Poster Model shoot, showing that courage and new beginnings can look powerful anywhere in the world. 

What do you love most about the motorcycle community?
I love how the motorcycle community is built on freedom, respect, and connection. No matter where you come from, you’re accepted as long as you share the same love for the road and the open spirit it represents.

What is the best thing that has ever happened to you?
The best thing that ever happened to me was starting a new life in America. It gave me a chance to grow, discover my strength, and experience new opportunities I never had before. It pushed me out of my comfort zone and helped me believe in myself more.

Jo C.
Age: 31
Occupation: Pilates Instructor and Medical Billing/Coding
Qualifying Bar: Murphy’s Pub & Grill
From: Rapid City, SD

What is your favorite hobby? 
Hanging out with my dog and pilates.

Have you ever attended a concert at the Buffalo Chip? If so, what was it?
No!! Yungblud will be my first. I can’t wait!

Do you have any secret talents? If so, what are they?
It wouldn’t be a secret if I told you 😉 (I’m a classically trained concert pianist)

What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever received?
The flower that blooms in adversity is the rarest and most beautiful of them all.

Jordan Y.
Age: 26
Occupation: Bar Owner
Qualifying Bar: Deadwood Tobacco Company
From: Aladdin, WY

Describe your fantasy motorcycle ride.
Going through Spearfish Canyon out to Devil’s Tower, stopping in Aladdin go through Saint Onge and end at the Buffalo Chip.

Who/what is your favorite singer/band?
Yungblud

 Do you have any secret talents? If so, what are they?
I do competitive shooting with AR and Glocks.

Can you tell us about a time when you took a risk and it paid off?
In 2019, when I purchased a town, now I have great place to call home.

Journey S.
Age: 26
Occupation: Bartender at Windsor Block Bar
Qualifying Bar: Joe’s Place
From: Rapid City, SD

What is your favorite hobby? 
No matter where I go, I carry a book and journal!

Describe your fantasy motorcycle ride.
My fantasy motorcycle ride is always on a 90 degree day, so it’s not too hot, but also not cold. It’s always through the woods to a lake, to take a dip and have a picnic. The perfect ending is letting the wind dry me off on my way home, driving off into the sunset. 

Do you have any secret talents? If so, what are they?
Unfortunately, I do not have any secret talents because I am a blabber mouth.

What do you love most about the motorcycle community?
What I love most about the motorcycle community is the feeling of acceptance! Anyone can get a motorcycle, from a Harley to a Suzuki and it’s universally known how cool you are!

Kelly D.
Age: 37
Occupation: Grocery Store Manager
Qualifying Bar: Valley Sports Bar
From: Rapid City, SD

What is your favorite hobby?
Outdoor. Hiking, fishing, long walks and riding my 98 Dyna.

Have you ever attended a concert at the Buffalo Chip? If so, what was it? 

Yes, in 2025. Marilyn Manson and Nickelback 

If you could be a rockstar for a day, who would you be, and why?
Gene Simmons because of all the ass he got.

What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever received?
Keep your head high and your middle finger higher. You only live once, but if you do it right, once is enough.

Lainey K.
Age: 35
Occupation: Bar Manager/ Bartender
Qualifying Bar: Murphy’s Pub & Grill
From: Rapid City, SD

Describe your fantasy motorcycle ride.
I’ve already done it, Pacific Coast Highway! I’d love to see it again

Who’s one person you’d be starstruck by if you got to meet them?
I’d have a hard time focusing if I was staring into Yungblud’s eyes!

Can you tell us about a time when you took a risk and it paid off?
Investing in myself and going for Poster Model! I was able to join bikini contests, network, travel. This is such an opportunity in our community.

Why do you want to be the 2026 Buffalo Chip Poster Model?
As a former title holder, a long term bar manager, influencer, and entertainer in the industry, I know I fit right in and I get things done. I’m a local, and those coming in from out of state want to know about what the locals like, especially when it comes to all the sweet spots the Black Hills have to offer.

Latisha M.
Age: 36
Occupation: Business Office Manager
Qualifying Bar: Grinners Bar
From: Gillette, WY

Describe your fantasy motorcycle ride. 
Beartooth highway, I’ve always wanted to go to Yellowstone just never have yet.

Who’s one person you’d be starstruck by if you got to meet them?
Laney Wilson. I just love how real and down to earth she is. 

If you could hold any world record, what would you want it to be, and why?
I’m very ladylike, but I’d say to have the longest belch because burps are hilarious.

What do you love most about the motorcycle community?
What I love most about the motorcycle community is how welcoming and nonjudgmental it is. It doesn’t matter who you are or where you come from — everyone is accepted. The people are some of the kindest you’ll ever meet, always ready to share a story, lend a hand, or just enjoy the moment together. And of course, they know how to have a good time. It’s a community built on freedom, respect, and unforgettable memories

Lauren R.
Age: 23
Occupation: Kitter at Accurpress America, Waitress at Joe’s Place
Qualifying Bar: Robbinsdale Lounge
From: Rapid City, SD

What is your favorite hobby? 
Going off-roading in my Jeep.

If you won the lottery tomorrow, what’s the first thing you’d do?
Fix up all of my project vehicles.

What do you love most about the motorcycle community?
How accepting everyone is, you can quickly find people who you might as well be family with.

What is the best thing that has ever happened to you?
Buying my dad’s high school truck, 1974 Ford F-100 and being able to cruise it around.

Mara F.
Age: 29
Occupation: Virtual Assistant/Real Estate
Qualifying Bar: Gold Pan Saloon
From: Custer, SD

What is your favorite hobby?
Ice Skating

Where do you go when you want to have fun and cut loose?
Roosevelt Ice Arena in the warmer months and Legion Lake when it’s frozen enough to skate on. My decompression is the sound my blades make on the ice.

If you could be a rockstar for a day, who would you be, and why?
Taylor Momsen. I think she’s a really cool chick with an interesting story. She’s overcome a lot in her life, she’s extremely talented in several areas, and she’s even been in some of my favorite shows/movies. I bet she’s got a lot of cool stories to tell.

Name one experience that’s on your bucket list.
A hot air balloon ride with Black Hills Balloons.

Megan C.
Age: 35
Occupation: Full Time Student
Qualifying Bar: Robbinsdale Lounge
From: Colorado Springs, CO

What is your favorite hobby? 
Horseback riding, shooting, and riding motorcycles

If you could be a rockstar for a day, who would you be, and why?
I’d be the band Nickelback, because they’re a total vibe. 

If you could hold any world record, what would you want it to be, and why?
Eat the most chicken wings, because that would just be so cool.

Can you tell us about a time when you took a risk and it paid off?
I’d say joining the military. It took me a lot of cool places, and I met a lot of great people.

Merridian W.
Age: 21
Occupation: Insurance Agent
Qualifying Bar: Murphy’s Pub & Grill
From: Newcastle, WY

What is your favorite hobby? 
Boating, fishing, jet skis and baking

Who/what is your favorite singer/band?
Tom Petty

Do you have any secret talents? If so, what are they?
I can shotgun faster than most men I know.

Who is the person who’s been the biggest influence on your life? Why?
The people who doubted me. Every time someone said I couldn’t, I worked my hardest to prove them wrong.

Remmie G.
Age: 21
Occupation: Bartender
Qualifying Bar: Deadwood Tobacco Company
From: Spearfish, SD

Who/what is your favorite singer/band?
Sturgill Simpson

Who’s one person you’d be starstruck by if you got to meet them?
Ruth Bader Ginsburg 

Do you have any secret talents? If so, what are they?
I am bilingual—I’m fluent in Spanish.

What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever received?
In the end, only three things matter: how much you loved, how gently you lived, and how gracefully you let go of things not meant for you.

Savanna W.
Age: 22
Occupation: Barista at Perky Cups
Qualifying Bar: Sally O’ Malley’s
From: Rapid City, SD

What is your favorite hobby?
Tattooing

Do you have any secret talents? If so, what are they?
I am good at art, and I can do a front hand spring.

What is the best thing that has ever happened to you?
When my grandma beat cancer. She’s my best friend and has been there through everything

Why do you want to be the 2026 Buffalo Chip Poster Model?
I want to prove to myself that I’m capable of more by stepping outside my comfort zone. By challenging myself in this way, I’ll build the confidence I need to keep growing and take on even bigger opportunities.

Shelby P.
Age: 28
Occupation: Substitute Teacher
Qualifying Bar: Grinners Bar
From: Gillette, WY

What’s your favorite way to break the ice with someone you just met?
I start with a compliment. I also like to use humor or playful energy to break the ice! 

What’s the weirdest thing you’ve ever eaten?
My own breastmilk. I had to make sure it wasn’t poison! 

Can you tell us about a time when you took a risk and it paid off?
I moved into my (now husband’s) house after only knowing him for a week. We have been together for 10 years now, so I think it paid off!

 What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever received?
Feel the fear and do it anyway! Acknowledging my insecurities and anxieties and taking action rather than waiting to be 100% ready.

Talya D.
Age: 30
Occupation: Nursing
Qualifying Bar: Grinners Bar
From: Gillette, WY

If you won the lottery tomorrow, what’s the first thing you’d do?
I would pay off all my school debt/ normal debt and put a huge portion in savings building interest so my child could have the best future and go to her dream college.

Can you tell us about a time when you took a risk and it paid off?
Getting to the semi final alone was a huge risk for me. I’ve been bullied a lot even as an adult so to have the confidence to actually take this step was a risk in itself and I am hoping it pays off in the end.

What do you love most about the motorcycle community?
Everyone is a family. You walk around and everyone talks to everyone and meets new people. I love how it’s like you’ve always known a person even if you just met them.

Why do you want to be the 2026 Buffalo Chip Poster Model?
I want to be the 2026 Buffalo Chip Poster Model because I believe in being a positive influence and showing women that confidence is built by taking chances. I’ve always dreamed of modeling and even becoming a Dallas Cowboys Cheerleader, but when I had my child—the greatest blessing of my life—my priorities shifted and I chose a path in healthcare. While I wouldn’t change that journey for anything, the desire to chase my dreams has always stayed in my heart. Becoming the Buffalo Chip Model would be a powerful way to complete that dream and show other women that it’s never too late to go after what sets your soul on fire. You truly can do anything you want if you’re willing to take the risk. I want to uplift others with happiness, positivity, and authenticity, and be a role model who encourages women to believe in themselves, embrace their strength, and fearlessly pursue their goals.

Tycie K.
Age: 36
Occupation: Cosmetologist
Qualifying Bar: 445 Lounge
From: Spearfish, SD

Do you have any secret talents? If so, what are they?
I can rope, do the moonwalk, and twerk.

Have you ever attended a concert at the Buffalo Chip? If so, what was it?
Too many to count, it’ll be hard to beat Nickelback!

If you could be a rockstar for a day, who would you be, and why?
Elton John, just so I could walk through his clothes closet!

What do you love most about the motorcycle community?
That we mind our own business, because none of us can hear crap! “What? I heard nothing” “Sorry, WHAT?”

Tyra R.
Age: 28
Occupation: Cosmetologist & Bartender
Qualifying Bar: Deadwood Tobacco Company
From: Rapid City, SD

Describe your fantasy motorcycle ride.
I’m in the process of getting my first bike! It’s always been a dream to cruise the Black Hills and experience my state’s beauty and culture first hand.

Have you ever attended a concert at the Buffalo Chip? If so, what was it?
My first concert I went to at the Chip was Theory of a Deadman and Snoop Dogg. The experience was unreal and the crowd was filled with great vibes!

Do you have any secret talents? If so, what are they?
I can play the harmonica!

Name one experience that’s on your bucket list.
Have a cooking lesson from Gordon Ramsey.

Vanessa R.
Age: 36
Occupation: Bookkeeper
Qualifying Bar: Robbinsdale Lounge
From: Hermosa, SD

What is your favorite hobby? 
Therapeutic yelling at pixels, also known as video games.

If you could hold any world record, what would you want it to be, and why?
Most dramatic gasps per day. I love overreacting.

What do you love most about the motorcycle community?
It’s a loud and loyal family. Once you’re in, you’re in. 

Why do you want to be the 2026 Buffalo Chip Poster Model?
The Buffalo Chip is a home and a family to me. The connections I’ve made with the people there have filled my heart and soul, and one of my greatest joys is spreading that spirit with others.

Being the face of the Best Party Anywhere means embodying the spirit of the fun and representing all that happens at the Buffalo Chip. A part of the prize is getting to see and represent all these incredible Sturgis concerts and be in the center of all the good times. It’s a party and job of epic proportions!

WANT TO SEE MORE?

Cheer on your favorite contestants as they strut across the stage at Rapid City’s Robbinsdale Lounge in the theme from their qualifying bar, Americana wear and bikinis during the Poster Model Finals on May 2, 2026!

In the meantime, you can also get up close and personal with past Poster Model Search contestants and see how they stack up with this year’s in the Sturgis Rider News Blog articles below.

Presented by the Sturgis Buffalo Chip

Known as The Best Party Anywhere®, the Legendary Buffalo Chip believes festivals should be fun like a high five, reenergize you like a broken rule, and romance you like someone you just met and want to kiss. 

This nine-day festival of concerts and motorcycle events promises to bring you exciting live performances from artists like Aerosmith, Willie Nelson, Lainey Wilson, Yungblud, Five Finger Death Punch, Kid Rock, Snoop Dogg and many more. 

The Best Party Anywhere remains one of the most televised festivals in the world and has been featured on the Travel Channel, the Discovery Channel, CMT Bike Week, HISTORY, TLC, National Geographic and more.

Learn more at www.BuffaloChip.com.