Post a Comment On: my ramblings | expressions

Miss Canada, Natalie Glebova, was crowned Miss Universe in a finale broadcast around the world and watched by an estimated one billion people(!)

Glebova, 23, who was born in Russia but emigrated to Toronto as a young girl, won the beauty pageant ahead of Puerto Rico's Cynthia Olavarria, who was first runner-up.

Earlier today, 15 semifinalists competed first in a glamour evening gown competition before they were whittled down to 10 contestants, who paraded in swimsuits.

The final five then faced a live interview session to determine the new Miss Universe.

The five finalists were Canada's Glebova, Miss Dominican Republic Renata Sone, Miss Mexico Laura Elizondo, Miss Puerto Rico Cynthia Olavarria and Miss Venezuela Monica Spear.

Winners of the three other awards were:

Best National Dress: Miss Thailand, Chananporn Rosjan
Miss Photogenic: Miss Philippines, Gionna Cabrera
Miss Congeniality: Miss US Virgin Islands, Tricia Homer.