A 71-year-old woman from El Paso, Texas, Marissa Teijo, made history at this year’s Miss Texas USA pageant as the oldest contestant ever.
Marissa, representing Paso del Norte, set a record as the oldest contestant ever in the pageant’s history. She was among 75 contestants aiming for the crown. Though Aarieanna Ware from Dallas won the title in the competition held in Houston from June 21 to 23, Teijo’s participation left a mark.
“I hope that people will look at us as older women as still being beautiful in our own way,” Teijo said, according to ABC News. “Young women have dreams, but older people have dreams also.”
Growing up on a farm, Teijo developed a strong passion for fitness early on, competing in various fitness competitions throughout her life.
However, Teijo initially hesitated to enter the Miss Texas USA pageant but changed her mind after discussions with Bazaar Model Management CEO Jackie Garcia.
Teijo’s journey to the pageant stage was made possible after the Miss Universe Organization removed age restrictions from all associated pageants. This decision opened doors for adult women of any age to compete.
Teijo’s participation marks a significant milestone in the pageant’s history.
