Veronique to battle nine for Carival crown

It’s that time of year again, when beauties from around the region gather to strut their stuff and show off their talent at the Carnival Development Corporation’s (CDC) Miss Carival 2009 pageant.{{more}}

In addition to Miss SVG 2009 Veronique Williams, there will be nine other contestants from the following countries: Antigua and Barbuda – Derri-Ann Browne; the Bahamas – Aisha Delaney; Dominica – Kayan Toussaint; Dominican Republic – Seila Sierra; Grenada – Asheida Charles; Panama – Edith Diaz; St. Kitts and Nevis – Samantha Boone; St Lucia – Cathy Daniel; and Venezuela – Deyanira Morales.

The pageant will take place on Friday, July 3rd, at the Victoria Park. Contestants will make an introductory appearance (not judged) in National Wear, and four judged appearances in Swimwear, Talent, Evening Wear and Interview.

The winner of Miss Carival 2009 will receive US$4,300 whilst the 1st and 2nd runners up will be awarded US$1,300 and US$700, respectively. The winner of the ‘Most Community Spirited’ award will receive the Little Vanloo trophy. Awards will also be given for the Miss Congeniality and Miss Photogenic awards.

Contestants are due to arrive in the state on Monday, June 29th and will depart on Saturday, July 4th; except for the winner, who will remain here until July 8th “to attend and officiate at functions over the carnival season.” The pageant is expected to be a high standard this year, and according to Cheryl Rodriguez, Chairperson of the Beauty Shows Committee, it signifies the “bringing together… of Caribbean beauties with varied talents, and a celebration of Caribbean womanhood, highlighting the positive attributes of charm, grace and intelligence…”

The pageant will be hosted by E.B John and Sylvia Anderson, with guest performances from Avenue Dancers, Winston Soso, Syl McIntosh, Bomani, and the 2009 Raggasoca Monarch. Ronique Dellimore, Miss SVG 2008 and Miss Carival 2008, is expected to make her final walk. No doubt Miss SVG 2009 Veronique Williams is hoping to replicate Dellimore’s double victory and keep the Miss Carival crown in SVG for another year.

In the run up to the pageant on July 3rd, contestants will attend a sashing ceremony, open interview session, live radio interviews and dress rehearsal. Additionally, they will visit several business houses in Kingstown, meet with Prime Minister Dr. Ralph Gonsalves, take part in a motorcade around Kingstown, attend ‘Glow’ and visit the St. Vincent Distillery, Georgetown.

Tickets are on sale at the CDC Office at Victoria Park, and cost $30 and $40 (reserved seats).