Miss Universe 2010

Miss Universe candidates in swimsuits

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Miss Russia is GB’s Face of the Universe 2010

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Mexico, 2nd place, Ireland, 3rd place, France, 4th place, Czech Republic, 5th place

Rounding out the top 20 faces in the Universe: Belgium, South Africa, Puerto Rico, Honduras, Philippines, Albania, New Zealand, Uruguay, Ghana, Ukraine, Bahamas, Trinidad & Tobago, Spain, Guatemala and Israel (tied in 20th place with Thailand).

Best voted in each continent were:

Europe – Russia
North America – Mexico
South America – Uruguay
Africa – South Africa
Caribbean – Puerto Rico
Asia – Philippines
Oceania – New Zealand

Congratulations to Miss Russia, GB’s Face of the Universe 2010!

Welcome Event

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Photo Gallery

National Gift Auction

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The 83 contestants took part at the Miss Universe National Gift Auction to Benefit Nevada Cancer Institute at Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino in Las Vegas, Nevada on Saturday, August 14, 2010

Photo Gallery

Miss Universe Close-Ups

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See all the contestants pictures

Photo Gallery

See the official portraits by Fadil Berisha

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See Miss Angola (photo) and all other Miss Universe delegates in their official portraits by Fadil Berisha.

Photo Gallery

Official Swimsuit Poster

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Miss Universe contestants go Topless in Berisha photoshoot

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After the Miss USA 2010 controversy where the contestants posed in provocative poses wearing lingerie -to the dismay of lots of pageant conservatives-, the Miss Universe pageant could not stay behind in the search of publicity and scandal, which seems to be their goal these days. The theme this year? Body Paint, while this year’s international delegates go… Topless!

Contestants sell Lemonade

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As one of the first official events, the 83 contestants of Miss Universe 2010 took turns at selling lemonade at a stand located outside the Fashion Show Mall in Las Vegas. The beauties wore their swimsuits sponsored by Dar be Dar. All proceeds benefit the Nevada Cancer Institute.

Photo Gallery

Evening Gown Portraits

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The 83 contestants posed in the official evening gown portraits, photographed by Matt Petit of the Miss Universe Organization. Please remember that -unless very rare cases- these are not the competition gowns.

Photo Gallery

Swimsuit Photos

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Photo Gallery

Registration and Fittings

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Photo Gallery

Things you didn’t know about this year’s pageant:

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1) Bolivia, Croatia, Aruba and Argentina presented formal bids to host the competition. Argentina and Aruba

stepped down due to financial costs; Bolivia was a sure bet but at the last minute, the Minister of Culture’s

response was negative; Aruba decided to push the bid to 2011 or 2012. In May, Las Vegas was announced as

official host city.

2) Bret Michaels, lead singer of popular 80′s band Poison, will be the emcee of the live telecast. As the winner of

Celebrity Apprentice 2010, Michaels made headlines due to his health problems. He was also featured in VH1′s

reality show “Rock of Love”, and has a new show called “Life as I know it”.

3) The combined total of excess baggage fees paid by the 82 contestants can buy you a brand new Mercedes Benz

M-Class.

4) Miss Australia Jesinta Campbell was blacklisted by PETA as she will wear a costume made of sheep skin and wool.

She defended her costume and say she is proud to wear it.

5) Miss Bolivia Claudia Arce made national headlines in her country due to her inability to reach her goal weight.

News shows featured a fight between her and her gym trainer in a case of exaggerated sensationalism.

6) Botswana returns to the Miss Universe stage for the first time since 2004.

7) Miss Brazil, Debora Lyra, won the Top Model of the World contest in 2009.

8) Miss Colombia made headlines in her country due to her nose. She even declared once that “My nose is more famous than I am”.

9) The original winner of Miss Guatemala, Alejandra Barillas, was replaced by Jessica Schell, her 2nd runner-up. No official reasons of her dismissal were given. Although some outlets published that she had broken a foot, Barilla said that this information was false.

10) Haiti returns to the pageant for the first time since 1989. Sarodj Bertin is the daughter of the late Mireille Durocher, a political activist who was murdered during the regime of Jean Bertrand Aristide.

11) A new national director took the Miss Universe license in India: She is Sushmita Sen, Miss Universe 1994. Her winner, Ushoshi Sengupta, is the first delegate that she sends to the pageant.

Miss Universe Mania 2010

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(Photo: Misses Colombia, Philippines, Mexico, Haiti, Australia, Puerto Rico.)

Some delegates in Los Angeles where invited to promote Miss Universe 2010

Touchdown LA

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Miss Universe Hosts Announced

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The 2010 Miss Universe Competition to be hosted by Bret Michaels and Natalie Morales with live performances by Orianathi and John Legend & The Roots

Globalbeauties First Leaderboard

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The Fab Five
1. MEXICO
2. RUSSIA
3. USA
4. COLOMBIA
5. CANADA

Venus Raj's send off photos

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Good luck to you!

Tickets

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The Miss Universe 2010 Live Telecast will take place at the Events Center, a 12,000-seat arena part of the Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino in Las Vegas, USA, on Monday August 23rd, at 6:00 pm local time (9 pm EST).
Tickets are available for the Presentation Show (all contestants parade in swimsuits and evening gowns), Dress Rehearsal, and Live Telecast.

Click here to buy your tickets

Schedule of Events

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(Photo: Last years delegates)

Aug. 7, 8, 9 – Arrivals
Aug. 10 – Welcome Event
Aug. 14 – Charity Auction benefiting the Nevada Cancer Institute
Aug. 17 – National Costume Competition
Aug. 19 - Presentation Show (delegates parade in swimsuits and evening gowns)
Aug. 20-22 - Rehearsals
Aug. 23 - Dress Rehearsal, noon / Live Telecast, 5 pm (8 pm EST)

Miss Universe Denmark 2010

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COPENHAGEN, July 18 - 20-year old Ena Sandra Causevic, from Sønderborg, has been appointed "Miss Universe Denmark 2010".

The 1.73 m beautiful model will now represent Denmark at the upcoming Miss Universe pageant to be held at the Mandalay Bay resort and casino in Las Vegas, on August 23rd.

Miss Universe Ghana 2010

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July 12, 2010. The elegant and well spoken Awurama Simpson, a college student studying in the field of Health Sciences, today earned herself the prized title of Miss Universe Ghana 2010. Awurama’s selection by a distinguished panel of judges in a special selection event in Accra, was based on her intelligence, charming personality, beauty, elegance, and poise.

The 22 year old third Year Student of Montgomery College, USA, aspiring model and television presenter will be Ghana's representative at the 2010 Miss Universe™ Pageant to be held at the Mandalay Bay, Las Vegas, NV, on August 23, 2010.

Miss Guyana Universe 2010

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GEORGETOWN, July 18 - A stunning Tamika Henry was crowned Miss Guyana Universe on Saturday night as predicted, after delivering an electrifying performance that revealed her confidence to win and her ability to captivate the audience.

From the beginning of the three-hour competition, the 22-year-old Queen’s College alumnus displayed grace and ensured that there was always a smile and eye contact with those watching.

Henry, standing 1.73 m tall, was crowned and sashed by Miss Guyana Universe 2007, local catwalk model and designer Meleesa Payne, close to midnight. Miss Guyana Universe 2009 Jenel Cox, who is pregnant, forfeited the crown and title. No pageant was held in 2008.

Henry outshone seven other beauties competing for the crown at the annual pageant held at the Princess Hotel, Providence – its first staging outside the National Cultural Centre.

Among her other gifts and prizes is the opportunity to represent Guyana at the Miss Universe pageant slated for Las Vegas, USA on August 23.

Miss Paraguay 2010

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ASUNCION, July 11 - 23-year old Johana Benitez Olmedo (Center) was crowned Miss Universo Paraguay on July 16th. The 1.76 m beauty will compete at the 2010 Miss Universe pageant in Las Vegas.

Miss Universe Romania quits; 1st runner-up takes crown

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Oana Paveluc (photo) is new Miss Universe Romania

Oana Paveluc is from the city of Brasov (120 km from the capitol city of Bucharest), she is 18 years old, has a height of 1.81 meters and ideal measures. She is a student in her last year of high school at "Remus Radulet" Technical High School, has completed numerous acting courses and dreams of becoming a successful businesswoman.

Miss Spain Universe 2010

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MADRID, July 13 - Two days after the celebrations that took the place all over the country to celebrate the victory at the 2010 FIFA World Cup, a special casting call to select Spain's representative to the 2010 Miss Universe pageant took place in Madrid on July 13th. 14 former participants, most of them with experience competing internationally, were invited to take part.

The winner is Adriana Reveron, Miss Tenerife 2006 and 1st runner-up in the Miss Spain 2007 contest. Chosen as 1st runner-up, was Tania Ladeiro (Miss Las Palmas 2005) and the 2nd runner-up as Alejandra Echevarria, Miss Jaen 2008 and actual runner-up of Miss Spain 2009.

This special selection took place due to a change in the date of the Miss Spain 2010 contest: It is expected to take place in Toledo on September 25th, so the need of choosing a delegate for Miss Universe took place.

Adriana hails from Tenerife (Canary Islands) and is 24 years old. She is a professional model, as well as a student of Architecture. The 1.77 m beauty -who was a finalist in the Miss Earth 2008 pageant- will now travel to Las Vegas in August to represent the winner in the Miss Universe 2010 contest.

Miss Universe Albania 2010

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TIRANA, July 11 - Anxhela Martini, a 24-year old professional model, was chosen Miss Universe Albania 2010 during an event held July 11. The 1.75 m beauty will represent Albania at the Miss Universe 2010 pageant to be held in Las Vegas, USA, August 23rd.

Miss Universe Botswana 2010

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GABORONE, July 11 - 19-year old Tirelo Ramasedi was crowned Miss Universe Botswana 2010 during an event held in Gaborone on Sunday. The 1.78 m beauty, who hails from Gaborone, will now represent Botswana in the Miss Universe 2010 pageant, to be held in Las Vegas next August.

Miss Universe Germany 2010

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BERLIN, July 10 - Kristiana Rohdel, 26 years old, was crowned Miss Universe Germany 2010 on July 10th, during an event held at the luxury Berlin Capital Club at the famous Gendarmenmarkt, in Berlin.

The 1.82 m beauty holds a degree in International Business. She has studied in München, London and Australia, and speaks fluent English. Kristiana will now represent Germany at the Miss Universe 2010 pageant in Las Vegas next August.

Miss Ireland Universe 2010

2010-07-11T01:23:00.001-07:00

DUBLIN - 19-year-old Rozanna Purcell was crowned Miss Universe Ireland 2010 in last night´s pageant. She placed 1st RU in last year´s Miss Universe Ireland-pageant.

Rozanna will now represent Ireland in Miss Universe 2010 in Las Vegas.

Miss Lebanon 2010

2010-07-11T01:20:00.000-07:00

BEIRUT - Miss Lebanon 2010 is Rahaf Abdallah (22). She was crowned last night in an event which took place in Beirut.

Rahaf will compete in Miss Universe 2010.

Señorita Panamá 2010

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PANAMA CITY, July 8 - Ányoli Ábrego Sanjur, a 23-year old professional model from Santiago, was crowned Señorita Panamá 2010 during an event held at the Sheraton Hotel in Panama City on July 8th. Anyoli, who stands 1.80 m in height, will represent Panama at the 2010 Miss Universe pageant to be held in Las Vegas, August 23.

Miss Egypt 2010

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Miss Egypt 2010 is Donia Hamed, 22, 179 m-tall, from Cairo. She studies Finance and is a part-time model. The Egyptian queen will get ready to compete in Miss Universe 2010, in Las Vegas.

Miss Nederland 2010

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NETHERLANDS, July 4th - 23-year old Desiree van den Berg, from Santpoort, was crowned Miss Nederland 2010 during a magnificent event held at De Efteling theater in Kaatsheuvel, July 4.

The 1.76 m beauty will now represent the Netherlands at Miss Universe 2010.

Miss Universe China 2010

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BEIJING, June 29th - The New Silk Road organization, new franchise holders for Miss Universe in China, appointed 19-year old Wen Tang (photo) as the People's Republic of China representative to the 2010 Miss Universe pageant to be held in Las Vegas, August 23rd.

Tang is a student and model who stands 1.74 m tall.

Frøken Norge 2010

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OSLO - Frøken Norge-Universe 2010 is Melinda Elvenes (Right). She will represent Norway at the Miss Universe 2010.

Miss Universe Australia 2010

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SYDNEY - June 16th - Jesinta Campbell, a 18-year old student from Queensland, was announced winner at the official crowning ceremony for Miss Universe Australia 2010 at the Sofitel Wentworth Hotel on June 17, 2010 in Sydney.

The 1.78 m beauty, who has also worked as a model, is now set to represent Australia at the Miss Universe 2010 pageant in Las Vegas, next August.

30 finalists from all over Australia were judged across three sections, Swimwear, Eveningwear and the answering of a question.

Star Hellas / Miss Hellas 2010

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ATHENS - June 14th - The annual Star Hellas / Miss Hellas / Miss Young organized by Antenna TV took place on Wednesday, with the participation of 25 contestants.

Chosen as Star Hellas 2010 was 20-year old Anna Anna Prelević (Right), from Athens. The 1.80 m beauty will represent Greece at the upcoming Miss Universe pageant in Las Vegas, August 23rd.

Miss Universe Canada 2010

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TORONTO, ONTARIO - June 14th - Elena Semikina (R), a 26-year old model from Toronto, was crowned Miss Universe Canada 2010 out of 62 beauties competing for the title. The contest took place at the Metro Toronto Convention Center on June 14th.

1.86 m tall Elena will now represent Canada at the 2010 Miss Universe contest in Las Vegas, on August 23rd.

Miss Universe Argentina 2010

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BUENOS AIRES - Yesica di Vincenzo, Miss Buenos Aires, was crowned Miss Universe Argentina 2010 last Saturday night.

Miss Universe Stefania Fernandez was present at the event.

Yesica will now get ready to compete in Miss Universe, on August 23, in Las Vegas, USA.

Miss Universe Sweden 2010

2010-06-06T02:34:00.001-07:00

STOCKHOLM - Miss Universe Sweden 2010 is Michaela Savic. Crowned this Saturday night, Michaela had been the first runner-up one year ago.

The 19 year-old stunner will now get ready to compete in Miss Universe 2010, in Las Vegas, on August 23.

Miss Universe New Zealand 2010

2010-06-05T06:11:00.001-07:00

WELLINGTON - Miss Universe New Zealand 2010, crowned earlier this Saturday, is Miss Econo Heat, Ria van Dyke

Ria comes from Auckland. She is 21-years old, stands 1.73 m in height and will compete in Miss Universe 2010, in Las Vegas, on August 23.

Miss Kosovo Universe 2010

2010-05-31T08:06:00.001-07:00

Keshtjella Pepshi, 22 years old and 1.78 m tall, was crowned Miss Kosovo Universe 2010.

She lives in Switzerland and competed in Miss Bern 2010, a preliminary to Miss Schweiz 2010.

Now she will get ready to compete in Miss Universe 2010, in Las Vegas, on August 23.

Kosovo debuted in Miss Universe in 2008. Last year's contestant finished in the 3rd position.

Press release from Miss Universe official website

2010-05-29T21:54:00.000-07:00

THE 2010 MISS UNIVERSE PAGEANT TO AIR LIVE ON NBC FROM LAS VEGAS ON MONDAY, AUGUST 23

The Pageant Will Broadcast Live from Mandalay Bay Resort & Casino and Simulcast on Telemundo

NEW YOKR, N.Y., - May 25, 2010 – NBC, Donald J. Trump and Paula M. Shugart, President of the Miss Universe Organization, announced today the 2010 Miss Universe Pageant will air live on NBC and Telemundo, Monday, August 23 (8-10 p.m. ET) from Mandalay Bay Resort & Casino in Las Vegas.

“Las Vegas is so fabulous, we had to come back again for the Miss Universe pageant,” said Paula M. Shugart. “The world will be watching as women from all around the globe descend on Mandalay Bay to compete for the crown and the title!”

“Las Vegas was built to host special events and attracts millions of visitors from around the world each year,” said Cathy Tull, Senior Vice President of marketing at the Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority (LVCVA). “We are delighted to host the 2010 Miss Universe Pageant and look forward to showcasing the destination to our guests and the television viewers that will be joining us for this global event.”

“We are thrilled that Mandalay Bay and Las Vegas have been selected to host Miss Universe in August,” said Jim Murren, Chairman and CEO of MGM MIRAGE. “The Mandalay Bay team, and the larger MGM MIRAGE family, stands ready to deliver a stellar event for all of the participants and for the worldwide audience.”

Miss Universe 2009, Stefania Fernandez, will crown her successor at the conclusion of the two-hour telecast. She has spent her reign traveling all over the world as an advocate for HIV/AIDS education, research and legislation. The woman crowned Miss Universe 2010 will continue to do the same.

Each contestant, representing over 80 countries around the world, will compete in three categories: swimsuit, evening gown and interview. Worldwide distribution of the competition has topped over 190 countries in past years.

Donald J. Trump will again serve as executive producer for Miss Universe.

The Mandalay Bay Resort & Casino is the Official Host Hotel of the 2010 Miss Universe competition.

Miss Singapore Universe 2010

2010-05-29T21:02:00.001-07:00

SINGAPORE - Singapore learned who will be its representative in Miss Universe 2010: Tania Lim (C) was crowned last Friday now and will get ready to represent her country in Las Vegas, on August 23.

The event took place at the Shangri-La Hotel. 16 participantes competed.

Miss India Universe 2010

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21-year old Ushoshi Sengupta from Kolkata was crowned Miss India Universe 2010 at the conclusion of the new I am She pageant held on May 28th. The 1.70 m model will represent India a the Miss Universe 2010 pageant in Las Vegas.

The Most Beautiful Girl in Nigeria 2010

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The first runner-up was Ngozi Odaloni (Right) from Niger (will compete in Miss Universe)

Miss Peru 2010

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LIMA - The 2010 Miss Peru pageant took place last night in Lima, Peru.

Miss Peru Universe 2010 is 22-year old Giuliana Zevallos (Miss Loreto, left).

Miss Universe Slovenia 2010 is replaced

2010-05-22T21:37:00.001-07:00

LJUBLJANA - A few days after the crowning of Miss Universe Slovenia 2010, it was discovered that there was an irregularity in recording the winners, more specifically, the names of three finalists were written in reverse order, meaning the the candidate declared winner was actually the 2nd runner-up, and the announced 2nd runner-up was the actual winner.

The serious mistake was corrected, Marika Savšek (photo) received her crown and sash, and will compete in Miss Universe 2010, on August 23, in Las Vegas, USA.

What a mess!!

Miss USA 2010 Crowning Moment

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2010 Miss Universe Pageant to be held in Las Vegas, Nevada, Monday August 23rd

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The 2010 Miss Universe competition will take place this year in Las Vegas, Nevada (USA) on Monday, August 23rd, live on NBC, organization officials confirmed on Sunday.

About 85 contestants from all over the world will be arriving during the first week of August to ‘Sin City’ where they will compete for the crown currently held by Venezuela’s own Stefania Fernandez.

It’s the third time that the pageant is held in Vegas. Its previous editions were in 1991 (won by Lupita Jones, Mexico) and 1996 (won by Alicia Machado, Venezuela).

This year marks the debut of a representative from Azerbaijan. Also, Haiti returns to the contest after a 20-year absence, and Guadeloupe returns after 26 years.

The host hotel has yet to be announced.

The Miss Universe Organization is a New York–based partnership between NBC and Donald J. Trump.

Miss Haiti 2010

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Sarodj Bertin, a 24-year-old lawyer, left behind 18 candidates and was crowned Miss Haiti 2010 and is expected to compete in Miss Universe

The new Haitian beauty queen currently lives in the Dominican Republic.

Haiti returns to Miss Universe after 21 years.

Michigan crowned Miss USA 2010

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Las Vegas, NV – May 16, 2010 – This evening, during one of the year’s most watched live television events, a star-studded panel of judges chose Miss Michigan USA, Rima Fakih, as MISS USA® 2010. Internationally-renowned chef and current “Celebrity Apprentice” contestant Curtis Stone and “Today” show co-host and correspondent Natalie Morales hosted the 59th Annual MISS USA Pageant from Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino in one of the world’s most electrifying cities, Las Vegas. The comedic mother-daughter duo Joan and Melissa Rivers were on hand providing backstage color commentary.

Ms. Fakih, 24, is from Dearborn, Michigan where she was raised with her younger brother. She is a graduate of the University of Michigan, where she earned her Bachelor of Arts degree in Economics, with a minor in Business Administration. After completing her reign as MISS USA, she plans to attend law school. She enjoys traveling, running, dancing, kickboxing and especially likes playing football and watching the NFL.

Miss Universe Malaysia 2010

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KUALA LUMPUR, May 15 - Nadine Ann Thomas (photo), a 23-year old event coordinator, was crowned Miss Universe Malaysia 2010 on May 15th. The 1.69 m beauty will travel to the USA to compete in the 2010 Miss Universe pageant on Aug. 22.

Miss Universe Slovenije 2010

2010-05-16T06:46:00.000-07:00

LJUBLJANA, May 14 - 21-year old Sandra Marinovic, a model and student from Trbovlje, was crowned Miss Universe Slovenije on Friday.

The 1.78 m beauty will represent Slovenia at the Miss Universe 2010 pageant in the United States this August.

A Királynő 2010

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BUDAPEST, May 13-Timea Babinyecz (left), a 19-year old student from Szeged, won the title of Miss Universe Hungary. She stands 1.72 m tall and will compete in the Miss Universe 2010 pageant to be held in the USA, on August 22nd.

Miss Bahamas 2010

2010-05-11T06:15:00.000-07:00

NASSAU, May 9 - Braneka Bassett (photo), a 20-year old model and student from Freeport, was crowned Miss Bahamas 2010. The 1.76 m beauty will represent her country at the Miss Universe pageant this year.

Miss Brazil Universe 2010

2010-05-09T03:53:00.001-07:00

Débora Moura Lyra, a student of journalism from Divinopolis, Minas Gerais, was crowned Miss Brazil Universe 2010 this May 8th in Sao Paulo. Débora, a 20-year old professional model, stands 1.80 m in height and will compete at the Miss Universe 2010 pageant later in the year.

The reigning Miss Universe, Stefania Fernandez, attended the event as special guest.

Miss Universe Great Britain

2010-05-04T08:12:00.001-07:00

Judges at the 2010 Miss Universe competition wouldn't be blamed for thinking that Miss Great Britain had the wrong sash on. With cascading chocolate locks, sultry brown eyes and olive skin, this year's entry is no English Rose, but a latina bombshell.

Miss Great Britain 2010, Tara Hoyos-Martinez, was born to Colombian parents living in England.

The lovely latina progressed through the qualification rounds of the Miss Great Britain contest, seeing off hundreds of competitors with her startling beauty to be crowned the national winner.

Hoyos-Martinez is a student of Medicinal and Biological Chemistry at Manchester Metropolitan University and plans on studying a post-graduate course to become a surgeon.

The 19-year old stunner stands 1.68 m and will represent Great Britain at the Miss Universe pageant in August.

Miss Guatemala 2010

2010-04-26T06:23:00.000-07:00

Guatemala City, GUATEMALA - The election of Miss Guatemala 2010 happened last Saturday night.

Miss Guatemala Universe 2010: Alejandra Barillas (Center), Zacapa

Miss Universe Tanzania 2010

2010-04-24T03:12:00.001-07:00

Dodoma, TANZANIA - Tanzania has a new beauty queen for Miss Universe and she is Hellen Dausen (C), elected Miss Universe Tanzania 2010. She will compete in Miss Universe 2010, later this year.

Miss Dominican Republic Universe 2010

2010-04-18T03:59:00.000-07:00

SANTO DOMINGO, April 17 - Eva Carolina Arias Viñas, a 24-year old professional model from Moca, was crowned Miss Dominican Republic Universe 2010 at an event held at the Rennaisance Auditorium of the Jaragua Hotel in Santo Domingo on April 17th.

The 1.80 m beauty will compete at the Miss Universe 2010 pageant.

36 women competed in the annual event.

This was Eva's second try for the title; she last competed in 2006, where she ended up as 1st runner-up to then winner Mia Taveras.

She was crowned by Rocío Castellanos, who took over the duties as Miss Dominican Republic when Ada de la Cruz (1st runner-up at Miss Universe 2009) gave up the title so she could enter politics and run as candidate to vice major of her town.

Miss Costa Rica 2010

2010-04-18T03:52:00.000-07:00

GUANACASTE, April 16 - Marva Wright, a 24-year old student of Physiotherapy, was crowned Miss Costa Rica 2010 during the 50th anniversary edition of the pageant, held at Hacienda Pinilla in Guanacaste and transmitted live to the entire country via Teletica.

Marva stands 1.83 m in height and will represent Costa Rica at the 2010 Miss Universe pageant, its date and venue still to be announced.

The winner was decided through an extra final question, due to a tie. Marva was asked about the things money can buy, to which she answered that "Money provides us many benefits and helps us go through our needs and to help others; but money will never be able to buy love; that comes from within ourselves".

Venus Raj given chance to reclaim Bb Pilipinas-Universe title

2010-04-11T02:57:00.001-07:00

MANILA, Philippines – Dethroned 2010 Binibining Pilipinas-Universe Maria Venus Raj can now reclaim her title. She only needs to get a valid Philippine passport.

In a statement released Saturday, the Binibining Pilipinas Charities, Inc. (BPCI) announced that “for humanitarian reasons,” they are allowing Raj to reclaim her title.

“We have reassessed the situation pertaining to Miss Maria Venus Raj and have decided, for humanitarian reasons, that if she is able to obtain a valid Philippine passport, we will reinstate her as the reigning Bb. Pilipinas-Universe,” the BPCI said in a statement.

Raj, who was guest at ABS-CBN’s noontime game show Wowowee, said she has been informed by the BPCI about the decision.

She said she has yet to consult with her lawyers about the latest development, but admitted that she is already planning on applying for a passport.

“Pinag-uusapan pa namin ito ng mga lawyers ko and ng family ko rin. Pero definitely, I will get a passport,” Raj said.

The BPCI recently stripped Raj of her title due to inconsistencies in her birth records.

The Filipino-Indian beauty from Camarines Sur had maintained that the officials of the BPCI knew from the very beginning the incorrect entries in her birth certificate. She said she was transparent during the pre-pageant screening of candidates.

Raj had also vowed to question the BPCI’s decision to dethrone her.

Commission on Human Rights chief Leila de Lima had said that Raj’s case “deserves serious scrutiny.”

De Lima said that she would like to find out if the BPCI gave Raj “her day” to explain the inconsistencies in her birth certificate.

The BPCI said in the statement that the decision to dethrone Raj was meant to protect the beauty titlist “in the way we felt appropriate.”

It said that while the BPCI is concerned about the Raj’s situation, it is also bound “as an entity” under Philippine laws.

The Bb Pilipinas-Universe has been handed to 2nd runner-up Helen Nicolette Henson.

Henson, a 21-year-old Broadcast Journalism major at St. Scholastica’s College, took over Raj’s place after the pageant’s 1st runner up failed to meet the age requirement of the Miss Universe Pageant.

Brazil could host the Miss Universe Pageant

2010-04-07T07:39:00.001-07:00

As reported by Terra Brazil and other media outlets, the Vice President of RedeTV!, Mr. Marcelo de Carvalho, is interested in bringing the Miss Universe pageant to Brazil.

Mr. Carvalho travelled to New York with his wife, host and model Luciana Gimenez, and Trump’s associate in Brazil, Mr.Ricardo Bellino (of Trump Realty Brazil)

The Folha newspaper of Sao Paulo reported the negotiations and how Embratur (Brazil’s Tourism Ministry) would be financing the pageant if the negotiations take place.

After Bolivia and Croatia -which were interested- withdrew their hosting proposals, there has not been an official announcement from the Miss Universe Organization regarding other venues or a possible date.

If held in Brazil, the pageant will probably take place around November.

Miss Turkey 2010

2010-04-02T20:27:00.001-07:00

Serenay Sarikaya (Second from right, contestant no.9) won the title 'Miss Turkey Universe'.

Bb. Pilipinas-Universe Venus Raj dethroned; replaced by runner-up Helen Henson

2010-03-29T06:33:00.001-07:00

The Philippines, a country with one of the biggest beauty pageant fan bases in the world, was shaken this Monday with a surprising announcement: Maria Venus Raj, crowned Bb. Pilipinas Universe 2010 a few weeks ago and expected to represent the country at the 2010 Miss Universe pageant, has been dethroned by the organization due to questionable birth records.

Raj has been replaced by 2nd runner-up Helen Nicolette Henson (photo), a 21-year old model, host and travel writer who holds a degree in Journalism.

Henson , who stands 1.75 m tall, has been appointed the new Binibining Pilipinas Universe 2010 and will represent the Philippines at the Miss Universe 2010 pageant later this year.

The 1st runner-up, Dianne Necio, was ineligible as she is only 17 years old. Miss Universe requirements state that contestants should be 18-26 years of age.

This isn’t the first time this situation has taken place. In 1999, Bb. Pilipinas Winner Janelle Bautista was dethroned due to irregularities in her residency papers. That year’s Bb. Pilipinas World, Miriam Quiambao, was asked to replace her. Quiambao went on to become the 1st runner-up in Miss Universe.

According to a representative of the Araneta Group, Legazpi native Venus Raj was replaced due to some factual inconsistencies on her birth certificate. Raj was crowned Binibining Pilipinas Universe last March 7.

Miss Croatia Universe 2010

2010-03-28T03:49:00.000-07:00

Winner was 21-year-old Lana Obad of Zagreb.

Lana stands 173 cm. and will represent Croatia in Miss Universe® 2010.

Miss Thailand Universe 2010

2010-03-28T03:42:00.000-07:00

March 20 - Fonthip Watcharatrakul, 19, 170 (will go to Miss Universe)

Bolivia drops bid to host Miss Universe Contest

2010-03-28T03:27:00.000-07:00

LA PAZ, Bolivia (March 15) - Bolivia is dropping its bid to host the Miss Universe pageant because it would cost more than anticipated. President Evo Morales has lobbied foreign leaders to help him bring the glamorous contest to the impoverished South American nation.

But Culture Minister Zulma Yugar said Sunday that a closer look at estimated expenses forced the government to pull out.

Developing countries including Vietnam and Thailand have hosted the pageant in recent years.

Zulma Yugar, Bolivia’s Minister of Culture, made the decision after a talk with executives of the contest organized by the U.S. businessman Donald Trump and delegates of Promociones Gloria, the Bolivian firm that performs the major beauty pageants in the country.

The minister informed the media that “While technical matters, negotiations had progressed, after reviewing financial, tax and legal aspects, we realized that those things were difficult to achieve.

She further assured that “among the reasons that led to her to make this decision is the great outlay required by the contract with the Miss Universe Organization.”

According to Yugar Zulma, “who organizes the pageant has to pay more than 600 hours of air-conditioned limousine, nights at a 5 star hotel, more than 45 thousand dollars for laundry and 350 air ticketsat a cost of over half a million dollars.

And that “the rental of sound and lighting for the event would cost nearly a million dollars, while building the stage for the final night of competition would be around a half million dollars.”

She also stated that “In the case of entering into an international arbitration organization for this event is conducted under foreign law which is against the Bolivian Constitution.”

The minister added that “the contract of Miss Universe provides a guarantee of three million dollars for immediate implementation to any fault no matter how small it is and purchase international insurance for women candidates and your wardrobe with a coverage of 39 million dollars” .

And confirmed that “his department took the decision after analyzing the possibility of Bolivia to host the event with representatives from the Ministries of Economy and Finance, Legal Defense and technicians.”

But “doesn’t give up the possibility of working for the realization of the competition in the country if there are private initiatives that seek to make the event”.

Nevertheless, Miss Universe was an odd fit for an anti-capitalist president who is a strong advocate of indigenous culture. Political opponents accused Morales and his party of using the pageant to court voters in conservative eastern Bolivia ahead of April local elections.

A city still in the running is Mar del Plata, located 5 hours away from the city of Buenos Aires, Argentina. Aruba, according to Awe Mainta, has opted to host the contest in 2011.

Miss Ecuador 2010

2010-03-28T03:19:00.000-07:00

QUITO, March 25th--Lady Fernanda Mina (left), a 23-year old student of communications from Guayas, won the Miss Ecuador 2010 title during an event held at the Centro de Convenciones y Exposiciones (CEMEXPO) in Quito, on March 25th.

Lady, who stands 1.70 m tall, also works as a model and will represent Ecuador at the Miss Universe 2010 pageant to be held later in the year.

Ceska Miss 2010

2010-03-23T05:43:00.001-07:00

18-year old Jitka Válková, the televoting winner, was crowned Ceska Miss (Czech Miss) Universe on March 20th at a spectacular event held in Prague.

Jitka, who stands 1.69 m tall, comes from Nárameč, a small town in the region. She will represent the Czech Republic in Miss Universe 2010 to take place later in the year.

Miss Universe Japan 2010

2010-03-09T06:36:00.000-08:00

Maiko Itai wins ticket to the Miss Universe pageant

25-year old Maiko Itai, was crowned Miss Universe Japan 2010 during an event held in Tokyo on Tuesday, March 9th.

1.73 m Maiko will now represent Japan at the Miss Universe 2010 pageant to be held soon.

NBC renews Miss Universe, Miss USA until 2013

2010-03-09T06:27:00.000-08:00

NEW YORK and UNIVERSAL CITY, Calif. - March 8, 2010 - NBC has renewed its exclusive agreement with Donald Trump and the Miss Universe Organization to broadcast the "Miss Universe" and "Miss USA" pageants on the network for three additional years effective in 2011.

Telemundo is also on board to continue its hugely successful Spanish language simulcast of "Miss Universe" as well as its top-rated pageant lead-in special, "Camino a la Corona."

The announcement was made today by Donald Trump, Paula M. Shugart, Miss Universe Organization president, and Jeff Gaspin, Chairman, NBC Universal Television Entertainment.

"There's been renewed interest in this series of beauty pageants, especially among a new generation of younger viewers," said Paul Telegdy, Executive Vice President, Alternative Programming and Production, NBC Entertainment and Universal Media Studios. "NBC is proud to maintain this unique American cultural tradition as a viable series of competitive programming specials that continue to be a popular source of entertainment."

"I am honored to continue this partnership with NBC," said Trump. "The Miss Universe Organization continues to outshine its competitors by showcasing the most beautiful women in some of the most exotic locations around the world on the best television networks.

Last year 'The 2009 Miss Universe Pageant' alone was seen in over 195 countries worldwide and 'The 2009 Miss USA Pageant' was viewed in 100. There are very few live worldwide broadcasts that come close to competing with Miss USA and Miss Universe."

"NBC continues to be a wonderful broadcast partner," said Miss Universe Organization president, Paula M. Shugart. "Together over the past eight years we have proven these pageants continue to be relevant in the worldwide marketplace. Telemundo's Spanish language simulcast and pre-show have added to the glamour and glitz of one of the most well known, sought after organizations in the world, the Miss Universe Organization."

"The 2010 Miss USA Pageant" is set to air live on NBC on Sunday, May 16 (7-9 p.m. ET) from the Planet Hollywood Resort and Casino in Las Vegas.

"Las Vegas has proven to be the perfect location for our worldwide broadcast," Shugart added. "We look forward to continuing our relationship with Planet Hollywood Resort and Casino and the Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority by making Las Vegas our home for the years to come."

Miss Israel 2010

2010-03-09T06:04:00.001-08:00

Bat-El Jubi (Left) is a 21-year old hotel receptionist from Afula, and stands 1.72 m tall; she will compete in Miss Universe 2010.

Miss Russia Crowning Video

2010-03-09T05:52:00.000-08:00

Miss Russia 2010

2010-03-09T05:42:00.001-08:00

Stunning Irina Antonenko captures the coveted crown

18-year old Irina Antonenko, from the Urals city of Yekaterinburg, was crowned Miss Russia 2010, a RIA Novosti correspondent reported on Sunday. Along with the title and the crown, Antonenko received a cash prize of $100,000.

1.78 m Antonenko is expected to represent Russia at Miss Universe this year, as long as her schedule allows it.

Miss World 2008 Kseniya Sukhinova, Miss Russia 2009 Sofya Rudneva and Miss Universe 2009 Stefania Fernandez attended the pageant as honored guests.

Miss Universe Slovak Republic 2010

2010-03-09T05:38:00.001-08:00

Anna Amenova wins stunning €90,000 Crown

Anna Amenova, a 25-year old model from Bratislava, was crowned Miss Universe Slovak Republic during an event televised live to the whole country on March 7th.

The 1.73 m beauty will represent Slovakia at the Miss Universe 2010 pageant next September.

Bb. Pilipinas 2010 Coronation Night - Crowing

2010-03-09T05:33:00.000-08:00

Bb. Pilipinas 2010

2010-03-09T05:27:00.001-08:00

Ma. Venus Raj, 21, of Bato, Camarines Sur,named Binibining Pilipinas-Universe 2010.
Raj was asked the question, “How far she would go to achieve her dreams?’’ and answered, “I will really do my best, and do everything that I can do to achieve what I really want in life. It is also important to have God in me so that I can achieve my dreams.’’

Raj stands 5’9”, weighs 110 pounds, and measures 35-22-35.

Before joining the contest, Raj worked as an Information Assistant at the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) Region 4.

She has a degree in BCA Major in Journalism and was Best in Long Gown, Best in Regional Terno, and Miss Friendship, a special award that she shared with a semifinalist.

Aside from playing volleyball and basketball, she is also into singing.

Miss Uruguay Universe 2010

2010-03-05T22:21:00.001-08:00

MISS UNIVERSO URUGUAY 2010
20-year old Stephany Ortega was crowned Miss Universo Uruguay during a pageant held at the Conrad Punta del Este Resort & Casino in Punta del Este, Uruguay, last February 27th.

The 1.74 m model will represent her country at the 2010 Mss Universe pageant.

Miss Nicaragua 2010

2010-03-05T22:09:00.000-08:00

Scharllette Allen, a 18-year old student of tourism from Bluefields, was crowned Miss Nicaragua 2010 during the 10th anniversary edition of the national contest, held at the Ruben Dario Theater in Managua on Feb. 27th.

It is the first time in the history of Nicaragua that a black woman wins the coveted title. Allen was the major favorite during the weeks leading up to the final event.

The 1.80 m beauty will now represent Nicaragua at the Miss Universe 2010 pageant to be held in September at a location to be announced.

Bb. Pilipinas 2010 Press Presentation News

2010-02-13T10:13:00.000-08:00

The search is on for Binibining Pilipinas 2010

2010-02-10T10:24:00.000-08:00

Here are the 2010 official candidate's press preview.

My favorite contestant to win the title of Binibining Pilipinas Universe is Nicole Kaufmann candidate no. 5

The grand coronation night will be held on March 6, 2010. 8pm at the Araneta Coliseum.

Let's meet the delegates.

Miss Finland 2010

2010-01-18T08:45:00.000-08:00

Viivi Pumpanen (center), a 22-year old student from Helsinki, was crowned Miss Suomi (Finland) 2010 on Sunday. The 1.68 m beauty will compete at the Miss Universe 2010 pageant to take place later this year.

Miss Belgium 2010

2010-01-11T17:02:00.000-08:00

Winner will participate in Miss Universe
BRUSSELS - Cilou Annys, and 18-year-old model from Bruges, was crowned Miss Belgium 2010 and will represent her country in Miss Universe
She is 1.78 m-tall.
Congratulations to the new Miss Belgium!

Miss Angola 2010

2009-12-18T18:17:00.000-08:00

African country decides who will represent it in Miss Universe.
Jurema Ferraz, Miss Namibe 2010, won the Miss Angola 2010 title. She will represent Angola in Miss Universe 2010.

Miss South Africa 2009

2009-12-16T16:53:00.000-08:00

More than 3750 people watched as Nicole Flint, a radio station employee, won the Miss South Africa pageant at the Sun City Superbowl

Nicole Flint, 21, from Pretoria was crowned Miss South Africa at the pageant at the Sun City Superbowl last night.

Pretoria's Flint, 21, is personal assistant to Jacaranda FM's Darren Scott. She was entering the pageant for the first time.

Flint is hoping to study towards a diploma in journalism and further her career in the media industry. The first-year apprentice for Jacaranda said she would leave the station and pursue the Miss SA challenge: "I have told the Jacaranda crew that if I win I will have to leave them to start with my new journey with Sun International."

The prestigious 52nd Miss SA was attended by former title holders such as Claudi Henkel, Kerishnee Naiker, Megan Coleman, Thuli Sithole, Cindy Nell and celebrities such as Dr Precious Moloi-Motsepe, Mr SA Stephen Segal and Generations actress Sonia Sedibe.

Flint will represent South Africa at the Miss Universe 2010 pageant next June.

Miss Ukraine Universe 2010

2009-12-09T17:29:00.000-08:00

The winner will participate in Miss Universe 2010

Miss Ukraine Universe 2010 is 22-year old Anna Poslavskaya. She stands 180 cm and will represent the Ukraine in Miss Universe 2010.

And Miss France 2010 is... Miss Normandie!

2009-12-06T19:21:00.001-08:00

Miss Normandie Malika Menard, a 22-year old student from Caen, was crowned Miss France 2010 during the annual gala held in Nice, France, on December 4th.

Menard, who stands 1.76 m tall, was crowned by outgoing titleholder Chloe Mortaud.

The new Miss France will compete in Miss Universe pageant in 2010.

Miss South Africa 2010 (December 13)

2009-11-30T08:09:00.000-08:00

Winner will compete in Miss Universe 2010.
Meet the contestants

Miss Curaçao (Universe) 2010

2009-11-26T20:17:00.001-08:00

Winner will compete in Miss Universe

WILLEMSTAD, November 25 - 19 year-old Safira de Wit won the Miss Curaçao 2010 contest last weekend.

She stands 5'11'' and will represent Curaçao in Miss Universe 2010 pageant.

Miss Colombia 2010 Crowning Moment

2009-11-18T09:38:00.000-08:00

Miss Colombia (Universe) 2010

2009-11-18T09:32:00.000-08:00

CARTAGENA DE ÍNDIAS, November 17 - Natalia Navarro, Miss Bolivar, confirmed her favoritism and was crowned Señorita Colombia, or Miss Colombia Universe 2010.
Natalia will now get prepared to compete in Miss Universe 2010, in a venue and date yet to be confirmed.

Miss Aruba 2010

2009-11-18T09:26:00.000-08:00

ORANJESTAD, November 17 - Priscilla Lee has won the title of Miss Aruba 2010.
Priscilla will compete in Miss Universe 2010.

Bolivia to submit formal bid to host Miss Universe 2010, following Morales’ petition

2009-11-13T23:58:00.000-08:00

La Paz, Nov. 10 (EFE) - Bolivia will present a bid to host the Miss Universe 2010 pageant, following a suggestion made by President Evo Morales to hold the event in the city of Santa Cruz as a tribute to ‘beautiful women’, according to local newspaper La Razon.

The company in charge of organizing the Miss Bolivia and Reina Hispanoamericana contests, “Promociones Gloria”, submitted to the Miss Universe Organization a petition of the requirements to host the international beauty contest.

The owner of this company, Gloria Limpias, explained that among the requirements, there should be enough hotels to host around 3500 people.

Limpias said that “Promociones Gloria” will work on the presentation of th formal bidding in conjunction with the Ministry of Culture, which is willing to make Bolivia the chosen host city by the Miss Universe Organization.

“The Government asked us to find out about all the specific requirements so we can work on what is needed, and then to start working on this matter” sad Limpias, who added that Santa Cruz has hosted major beauty events, like the Reina Hispanoamericana pageant.

Limpias mntioned that Bolivia would benefit by hosting this event, due to an increase in the economy, as well as the touristic promotion taking place during the television transmission of the contest, which has a worldwide audience of millions.

She also recognized that there is a list of countries that could be in the running to bid the 2010 contest. If not elected, Bolivia would have to wait until 2011 to reach this goal.

Miss Universe Puerto Rico 2010

2009-11-13T18:08:00.000-08:00

SAN JUAN, November 12 - Mariana Paola Vicente Morales, 20, Miss Universe Rio Grande, was crowned Miss Universe Puerto Rico 2010, at the Centro de Bellas Artes of San Juan.

The winner, who has already been nicknamed the "Caribbean Barbie", will try the 6th Miss Universe title for the island of Puerto Rico. She was crowned by Mayara Matos, Miss Universe 2009's 4th runner-up.

39 candidates competed.

Miss Mauritius Universe 2010

2009-10-26T23:20:00.000-07:00

Dalysha Doorga

Miss Poland Universe 2010

2009-10-26T23:12:00.000-07:00

WINNER (OFF to MU 2010) - Maria Nowakowska
Maria Nowakowska will now represent Poland in Miss Universe 2010.

Clerics in Aceh upset over Acehnese woman's triumph

2009-10-16T10:23:00.001-07:00

JAKARTA, October 10 - Clerics in Indonesia's conservative Muslim province of Aceh say they are outraged that an Acehnese woman has won the title of Puteri Indonesia.

Qori Sandioriva, 18, won the Miss Indonesia title on Friday, beating 37 other contestants for the crown.

The clerics say that by failing to wear a veil during the competition she has betrayed her Acehnese roots and brought shame to the province.

Aceh has special autonomy in Indonesia and has implemented partial Sharia law. It is the only province in Indonesia, the world's largest Muslim country, that follows these laws.

Qori Sandioriva was born in Jakarta but has an Acehnese mother. Thanks to her mother's connection to the province she was able to enter the competition as Miss Aceh.

But Islamic clerics in Aceh say she has misrepresented her region.

They say she should have worn a veil during the competition, in keeping with the traditions of her mother's province. Teung-ku Faisal Ali, the secretary general of Aceh's Ulama Association, told the BBC that anyone who represents Aceh must uphold the province's values.

He said Qori Sandioriva did not wear a veil during the competition and therefore did not represent the Acehnese people, who have strong Islamic faith and values. When asked about not wearing a veil during the competition, Ms Sandiorova said she believed hair is beauty, and that she is proud of beauty.

The controversy is likely to return next year when she goes on to compete in the Miss Universe 2010 contest where she will have to don a swimsuit as part of the pageant.