DARRYL DASS Monday, February 11 2013

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TOP THREE: From left, second runner-up Vanessa Smith, Miss 2013 Chaguanas Carnival Sonia Millington and first runner-up Samantha Sinanan....

UNIVERSITY of the West Indies (UWI) St Augustine campus student Sonia Millington, 21, is the 2013 Chaguanas Carnival Queen. Millington, who hails from Penal beat a field of ten beauties at the Chaguanas Carnival Queen Show held on Friday night in Chaguanas.

The new queen took home $10,000, airline tickets and accommodation for two to Miami and a 50 inch plasma television. Overwhelmed with emotion, Millington said that she was ecstatic with her victory. She said she prayed for this success and the victory will certainly boost her self confidence. The ladies made their first appearance at about 8 pm, parading in trendy party wear. They returned later in a dancing mood wearing their exquisite carnival costumes much to the delight of the crowd.

Following entertainment provided by soca artistes, Shal Marshal, Super Jigga TC and Chucky, the delegates paraded before the judges in enchanting evening gowns.

Second runner-up was Vanessa Smith while Samantha Sinanan was adjudged the first runner-up. There were several special prizes with Miss Congeniality going to Vanessa Smith and Miss Photogenic awarded to J’vonne De Peza. The Spirit of Carnival Award and Best Party Wear went to Latifah Morris while Samantha Sinanan, who was declared the most dedicated delegate, captured the prize for the best evening gown.

Coordinator of the queen show, Laverne Roberts, stated she was very pleased with the success of the show. She thanked all delegates for their hard work and indicated that she looked forward to an even better show in 2014.