Local woman, aged 56, wins pageant first princess title

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MOSSEL BAY NEWS - Mossel Bay's Karen Gray has defied the odds to be crowned first princess in a beauty pageant, at the age of 56.

The winner is 20 years younger and the second princess, 16 years younger than Karen.

The pageant was Mrs African United Continent and the final took place at Carnival City on 30 April.

Jaci Tibbit won the title and Rochel Buys was the second princess. Besides being crowned the first princess, Karen also won the titles, Overall Personality and Overall Philanthropist.

She exuded positive energy and confidence on stage. Although the winner had traditional beauty queen looks, with flowing brunette locks and a tiny figure, statuesque Karen sported a funky, short haircut. She impressed with her strong, regal stage presence.

PHOTO GALLERY: Karen Gray first princess in beauty pageant

She owns her own pageant company, she is a talent scout and she is the co-founder of the non-profit organisation, the Anti-Bullying Academy.

'Enjoy it'

Karen said: "I went to enjoy it. I had no expectations and it was enjoyable. This is what I say to all my models: 'If you have done your preparation, simply go and enjoy it.' I am not a pageant queen. I don't like the limelight. I don't mind talking in front of people or doing counselling, model coaching or being a master of ceremonies, but when the attention was on myself, that was scary for me."

Karen said one of the judges asked her: "Is there anything that scares you?"

She replied: "This pageant."

But she told the Advertiser: "When I was on stage it was nice." Also, the cheering of the supportive audience made it easier for her.