A 71-year-old woman made history this year as the oldest contestant ever in the Miss Texas USA pageant. Marissa Teijo, though she didn't win, impressed many with her talent at the event in Houston last weekend.
Aarieanna Ware was crowned Miss Texas USA on Saturday, June 22, after winning last year's Miss Dallas title. She will now represent Texas in the Miss USA competition.
The Miss Universe organization recently removed age limits for contestants over 18 and expanded eligibility to include married, divorced, and pregnant women. "I feel that all women now have a new stage of opportunity, strength, and beauty," Teijo reportedly said.
Born and raised in El Paso, Texas, Teijo expressed excitement before the competition about breaking barriers and making a difference in various fields regardless of age.
According to Eccandc.org, Teijo was born on July 8, 1952, and developed a passion for fitness early in life while growing up on a farm, as reported by KVIA. She has participated in various contests, including the National Physique Committee event.
Teijo garnered 114 votes on the Miss USA website. In a previous Instagram post, she wrote, "I am thrilled to be part of this incredible new experience as a Miss Texas USA contestant. My aim is to inspire women to strive for their best physical and mental selves and to believe in beauty at any age."
Jackie Garcia-Martinez, CEO of Bazaar Models, who represents Teijo, expressed pride in representing diverse women. "I represent women of all shapes, ages, and races. As I prepare my team for the Miss Texas competition, I am excited to support these women who inspire me as a leader every day."
