THE EDITOR,Sir:I WOULD love to congratulate Miss Jamaica Universe, Christine Straw, for the exemplary manner in which she represented her country at the Miss Universe 2004 beauty pageant held in Quito, Ecuador.
This year's competition saw 80 contestants competing for the coveted Miss Universe crown. The contest was eventually won by Miss Australia, a 20-year-old model and cheerleader, Jennifer Hawkins. Miss USA, Puerto Rico, Paraguay and Trinidad and Tobago were all top five finalists. Christine had just a month of preparation for this major competition.
This year saw many countries stepping up the competition by sending contestants who had previous international beauty pageant experience. Christine was chosen among the top 15 and the top 10 finalists. I believe she was the most outstanding contestant in the evening gown competition and her designer should also be commended.
I believe local organisers of these international beauty pageants need to allow their representative quality time to prepare themselves, in order that they may be given a reasonable chance of winning. For instance, most countries have already chosen their representative for the Miss World 2004, which will be held in China.
I am, etc.,
Mr. Bailey
youthfully2@yahoo.com
