By Janet Silvera,Freelance Writer
WESTERN BUREAU:
IN LESS than a year, 17-year-old Trudy-Ann Collins has worn two crowns. She is the reigning Miss Montego Bay Community College, and on Saturday night she took home the crown of Miss Jamaica World (Cornwall), which she won from a field of eight contestants, at the Caribbean showplace, Ironshore, Montego Bay.
She wore the sash of 'Miss Andre's Auto Supplies' and walked away with $25,000 in prize money and a weekend for two at Breezes Varadero, in Cuba.
Trudy-Ann also took the sectional prize of 'Best Personality', for which she won a weekend for two at Beachcomber Club, in Negril.
Tears of joy flowed from the new queen's eyes when she told The Gleaner, "I feel privileged, it feels good. I plan to do my job, representing the county of Cornwall to the best of my ability".
Her crowning was met with mixed reaction from the audience, who cheered on their favourites such as 19-year-old university student Sherene Welsh, 16-year-old Romayne McNab and 23-year-old Kerry Bell.
McNab was placed third and then second, a mistake made by one of the emcees which proved an embarrassing moment for the organisers. She received $10,000, a weekend for two at Sandals Royal Bahamian and a gift package from Soft Sheen for winning the prize for the best figure.
Bell, who placed third, received $5,000 and a weekend for two at Beaches Negril. The petite fitness instructor got $5,000 in prize money plus a $5,000 gift certificate from Super Plus Food Stores for being the most aware contestant.
The three top women took home plaques and a three-month gift certificate from the Flexx Fitness Centre.
The 'Best Smile' award went to 17-year-old Tracy Ann Dawkins who received a gift package from Colgate Palmolive. Except for a few minor hitches, the contest went fairly well, with credit going to new franchise holder, Jerome Harriott. The night's entertainment took on the popular Latino flair.
The audience was treated to an excellent rendition of Santana's Maria Maria by the singing sensation Romeo J, a young heartthrob who had the women screaming for more. Dressed as 'Zorro', without the mask, he wore black satin pants, matching inner shirt and red trench coat, topped off with black gloved fingers. He took the crowd to greater heights with his seductive body movements and melodious voice.
