Marissa Teijo, a 71-year-old woman from El Paso, Texas, is making history as the oldest contestant to ever compete in the Miss Texas USA pageant. This remarkable achievement is a testament to her belief that age is just a number and that dreams can be pursued at any stage of life.
Teijo’s journey to the Miss Texas USA pageant is rooted in her early years growing up on a farm. From a young age, she developed a passion for fitness, which she has maintained throughout her life. Over the years, she has participated in numerous fitness competitions, showcasing her dedication to health and wellness.
This weekend, Teijo will compete against nearly 100 other women in Houston for the coveted title of Miss Texas USA. The two-day pageant, which concludes on Saturday, is a significant event in the pageant world, and Teijo’s participation is already making waves.
In a heartfelt post on her Instagram page, Teijo expressed her excitement about this new chapter in her life. “I am delighted to be a part of this incredible new experience as a contestant in the Miss Texas USA pageant,” she wrote. Her enthusiasm and positive outlook are inspiring many, proving that it’s never too late to chase one’s dreams.
Teijo’s participation in the pageant comes at a time when the Miss Universe Organization has made a significant change by removing age limits for contestants. This move is part of a broader effort to be more inclusive and to celebrate women of all ages, shapes, and backgrounds. Teijo’s entry into the competition is a perfect example of this new direction.
If Teijo wins the Miss Texas USA title, she will go on to represent Texas in the Miss USA pageant in Los Angeles on August 4. This would be another historic milestone, as she would be one of the oldest contestants to compete at the national level.
Teijo’s journey is not just about breaking age barriers; it’s also about empowering women. “I feel that all women now have a new stage of opportunity, strength, and beauty,” she said. Her words resonate with many who see her as a role model and a symbol of resilience and determination.
Jackie Garcia-Martinez, CEO of Bazaar Models, which represents Teijo, expressed her pride in supporting women like Teijo. “As I prepare my team to compete at Miss Texas, I’m thrilled to support these women who inspire me as a leader every day,” she said. Garcia-Martinez’s support highlights the importance of representation and diversity in the pageant world.
Teijo’s story is part of a broader trend of older women making their mark in beauty pageants. Recently, Alejandra Rodriguez, a 60-year-old from Argentina, competed in the Miss Argentina competition, aiming to become the oldest Miss Universe contestant. Although she did not win, her participation was a significant step towards greater inclusivity in the pageant industry.
In addition to Teijo and Rodriguez, other trailblazers are also making headlines. In June, Bailey Anne Kennedy, a 31-year-old marine spouse, became the first-ever transgender Miss Maryland USA. Her victory is another example of the evolving landscape of beauty pageants, where diversity and inclusivity are increasingly celebrated.
Teijo’s participation in the Miss Texas USA pageant is a powerful reminder that age should never be a barrier to pursuing one’s dreams. Her story is inspiring people of all ages to embrace new opportunities and to believe in their own potential.
As the pageant weekend unfolds, all eyes will be on Teijo and her fellow contestants. Regardless of the outcome, Teijo’s presence in the competition has already made a significant impact, challenging stereotypes and redefining what it means to be a beauty queen.
In a world where ageism is still prevalent, Teijo’s journey is a beacon of hope and a call to action for everyone to pursue their passions, no matter their age. Her story is a celebration of life, resilience, and the endless possibilities that come with believing in oneself.
Source: CNN, El Paso Times, Instagram
