Air Force veteran and Biddeford native VeronicaIris Bates will take the stage in Tulsa, Oklahoma tonight as she competes for the title of Miss USA. The preliminary round was held on Friday.
Representing Maine, the 21-year-old former Security Forces Member said she is excited about the final round of competition. Speaking with Spectrum News Maine, Bates said Friday’s preliminary event was a “dream come true.”
“I really feel as if I gave it my all,” said Bates. “I’ve given this competition my heart and soul and hopefully I will have the opportunity to do that for the next year as Miss USA.”
Women from all 50 states and the District of Columbia will compete for the crown tonight during a live broadcast on FYI and Hulu Live TV. Contestants are judged on multiple categories, including a private interview, swimsuit, evening gown and on-stage question.
Bates says that the self-improvement aspect of this year’s pageant has been the biggest takeaway from her experience competing in Miss USA.
“I have been pushed outside of my comfort zone and really had the opportunity to get to know and understand who I am as a person,” Bates said.
When asked to give advice to those who are thinking of competing for the title of Miss Maine 2022, Bates said “go for it.”
“The system is inclusive and progressive and because of this, you will take something away from the experience.”
The Miss USA competition airs tonight at 8 p.m.
