By Madeleine SutherlandRecord Staff WriterWith the start of the Missouri State Fair a week away, 2014 Queen Hanna Keene’s reign is drawing to a close.The 2013 Warrenton High School graduate and University of Missouri junior describes her experiences this past year with one word: astonishing.“This experience has been the best one yet,” said Keene. “Not only was it filled with amazing memories that will last forever, but it enabled me to grow as an individual.”Keene was crowned Warren County Fair queen in July 2014. Winning the local title allowed Keene to compete in the Missouri State Fair Queen competition held in Sedalia at the Missouri State Fairgrounds.After a year of service, the surprise of winning has not lost its novelty for Keene.“Of course I went into the competition with high hopes, but I never imagined in a million years I would hear the words, ‘Your 2014 Missouri State Fair Queen is contestant 41, Hanna Keene,’ ” she said.Keene stated that as soon as her name was called, she made eye contact with Ashley Bauer, another Warrenton High School graduate and the 2013 Missouri State Fair Queen.“I am pretty sure both of our jaws hit the floor and we screeched in excitement like two little girls,” said Keene. “To have shared that moment with Ashley again was definitely icing on the cake.”Earning the crown brought on a lot of responsibility for Keene. Her main duties were performed during the duration of the 2014 State Fair, which ran from Aug. 7-17.That week Keene attended livestock shows, the Show of Champions, and cooking competitions. She also honored livestock barn families and was able to meet county music entertainers Sara Evans, Florida Georgia Line, and Jake Owens. One of her favorite events was riding on the winning six-horse draft pull hitch.“I was able to participate in events that I would have never experienced before,” stated Keene.Some of her responsibilities were more outlandish, while others honored the traditions of the Fair. Keene shot basketball off an antique tractor while riding in the bucket seat. She also rode a 1929 fire truck around the fairgrounds and heard a speech from a World War II veteran.After the conclusion of the Fair, Keene had the opportunity to participate in events around the state.“I rode in different county parades and judged multiple county fair queen pageants,” Keene said. “That was definitely a great experience being on the other side of the competition and I loved every second of it.”At this year’s State Fair, which runs from Aug. 13-23, Keene will attend events for the first two days of the Fair while the 2015 queen candidates compete for the crown.She also will assist with the queen competition and be present for the coronation ceremony on Aug. 14, at 3 p.m. in the Mathewson Exhibit Hall in Sedalia. Jennah Garrison, 2014 Warren County Fair queen, is one of the candidates.After the new queen is crowned, Keene will be relieved of her duties as she passes on her title.“I never considered myself as a ‘pageant girl,’ ” Keene recalled. “My mom was surprised when I ran for Warren County Fair queen, but I am beyond blessed and thankful that I took that little step of faith. I have gained so much within this past year.”Keene also credits her participation in queen competitions with helping her grow out of her bubble and giving her more self-confidence.“Every girl needs to have confidence. They just need to find their own niche on how to build that confidence,” she said. “Step outside of your comfort zone and skills, memories and confidence will be gained.”2014 Queen Hanna Keene