Karlie Hay of Texas is crowned as Miss Teen USA 2016

Miss Teen USA 2016: Karlie Hay

Karlie Hay won the title of Miss Teen USA 2016 few hours ago, defeating teens from 50 other states in a grand event.  Karlie is Miss Texas Teen USA.  She succeeds Katherine Haik as the reigning Miss Teen USA.

The 51 contestants competed in preliminary competition.  Based on performances in active wear, evening wear and interview rounds in preliminary competition, 15 semi-finalists were chosen.  15 girls competed in active wear and thus the field was narrowed down to 10.  10 girls competed in evening wear and 5 were selected to move ahead.  The five finalists were teens from South Carolina, Alabama, North Carolina, Texas and Nevada.  The girls competed in interview and finally the judges voted based on answers and overall impression. Karlie Hay was considered among the strong contestants, but she never the top 5 favorite.  Her winning reaction was very sweet and can melt a stony heart!

Over the years, Miss Teen USA is becoming a smaller event.  This year Miss Teen USA was broadcast live on Facebook page.  The stage was good this year though.  The show was hosted by Miss USA 2015 Olivia Jordan.  Miss USA 1994 Lu Parker was one of the judges.  The reigning Miss USA Deshauna Barber and Miss Universe Pia Wurtzbach were also present in the event.  Karlie Hay will now share an apartment with the two beauties, as she spends the year in promoting the causes of Miss Universe Organization.