Miss Rupununi Rodeo 2019 does Surama proud

DPI, Guyana, Saturday, April 20, 2019

Mae Allicock, of Surama Village in Region 9, is the new Miss Rupununi Rodeo 2019. Allicock was crowned queen after the Easter weekend in Lethem got off to an excellent start on Friday, April 19.

The pageant had three segments, with the beachwear category being a new addition to the event. This is the first time in fifteen years of hosting the pageant that this segment was added. The other two categories, Introduction and Rodeo (‘cowgirl’) outfit, facilitated a showcase of skills, talent and beauty by the contestants.

Mae Allicock in her rodeo ‘cow girl’ outfit.

Mae Allicock in her beach wear which earned her the lead above the rest, helping her win the pageant.

– [In the photo, from left to right] Posing with their winning prizes; First runner-up, Faylaika Charles, Miss Rupununi Rodeo 2019, Mae Allicock and second runner-up, Pricilla La Cruz.

The seven beauties in their beach wear.

Minister of Indigenous Peoples’ Affairs, Sydney Allicock was among the first well-wishers to congratulate the new queen.

A section of the large crowd that gathered to witness the crowning of Miss Rupununi Rodeo 2019.

In her introduction, the seventeen-year-old beauty promoted her home village as a paradise since it is one of Guyana’s main tourist attractions in the hinterland. Minister Allicock highlighted its wildlife, food and rich Indigenous culture; her presentation set the perfect foundation for her to compete against the others in the pageant.

A total of seven girls, representing villages and communities in Region 9, vied for the crown. The 2019 queen walked away with $125,000 in cash, a cosmetic gift set, free makeup tutorial course and a floral bouquet along with a trophy.

First and second runners-up were Faylaika Charles and Pricilla La Cruz, both of Central Rupununi. These two particular contestants were the crowd’s favourites as the portrayal of their pieces stunned all in attendance. They were awarded cash prizes of $60,000 and $50,000 respectively in addition to cosmetic gift sets compliments of Sasha’s Beauty Shop.

The event was attended by hundreds of patrons who are visiting the region for the weekend of Rodeo-related activities. Among major sponsors are Banks – D’Aguiar Industries and Holdings (DIH).

The winner of 2018’s Miss Rupununi Rodeo queen hailed from the village of Sand Creek.

Delicia Haynes.

Images: Keno George.