There will be a new Miss Tennessee crowned Saturday night and it could be Warren County native Caroline Carter.
Carter is among 36 contestants vying for the crown during a four-day competition that begins this morning in Jackson. She earned the chance to participate by winning the local Miss Country Sunshine Pageant.
“The last three days have been brutal,” said Carter yesterday afternoon. “I’ve put in a lot of hard work so hopefully it will show on stage.”
Contestants arrived Sunday and immediately began rehearsals. Carter said rehearsals lasted until 11:45 p.m. Sunday night, then picked up again first thing Monday morning. The dress rehearsal was last night.
Carter will interview this morning, before the swimsuit preliminary Wednesday night. The evening gown competition is Thursday, followed by the talent competition Friday. Carter’s talent is lyrical ballet.
Current Miss Tennessee Erin Hatley will crown her successor Saturday night.
Carter says the competition begins with what she believes are her strongest two categories.
“I’ve really put a lot of preparation into my interview,” said Carter, the 19-year-old daughter of Laura and John Carter. “During the interview, the judges can ask anything from my platform, to current events, to politics. I feel like I’m emotionally and mentally prepared. After that, I’d say my next best category is swimsuit because I love fitness and eating right. That’s why I chose the platform of eating disorder education.”
Carter says she started participating in pageants at age 12. She is studying to be a dental hygienist at Chattanooga State.
“I’m glad we’re at this point because we’re finally on the downhill stretch of rehearsals,” said Carter. “I’m honored to be here representing McMinnville.”
The Miss Tennessee Pageant is held at Carl Perkins Civic Center. It’s televised in Jackson, but can only be viewed online for Warren County residents.
The website is www.eplustv6.com.