71-year-old makes beauty pageant history
A 71-year-old woman has made history by becoming the oldest person to ever compete at a prestigious beauty pageant.
Marissa Teijo never wanted to give up on her dream of competing in the Miss Texas USA pageant as she got older, and in the 2024 competition, she made her dreams a reality.
Teijo says the experience was "incredible", even though she wasn't crowned the winner.
The 71-year-old documented her pageant journey on Instagram to inspire others to never give up on their own dreams.
Explaining her decision to sign up to the pageant on social media, she says, "I am delighted to be a part of this incredible new experience as a contestant in the Miss Texas USA pageant."
"In doing so, I hope to inspire women to strive to be their best physical and mental self and believe there is beauty at any age."
Teijo spoke of her initial "misgivings" before entering the pageant, saying, "I began to realise I could do it and inspire older ladies and young ones too that there is beauty at any age if you lead a healthy and active lifestyle. So, that became my goal instead of just striving to win."
"Overall, I believe my goal in entering the pageant was achieved, and I can truly say it was an amazing fairytale experience, one that I never ever dreamed I would be experiencing."
"I would like to also add that fitness, especially weightlifting, and being strong are the ultimate goals. Looking beautiful is secondary because fitness and healthy living are the best defenses against aging," Teijo added.
Image credits: Instagram