By Adrian Frater, Staff Reporter
Businessman Lachu Ramchandani (left), the franchise holder for the 'Miss Commonwealth' pageant, places the crown on the head of Natalie Green shortly after she was adjudged the winner of the Jamaican leg of the pageant on Sunday night. Looking on is Rashida Gopie, second place winner.
WESTERN BUREAU:
PULSE MODEL Natalie Green created history on the scenic Sandals Cay in Montego Bay on Sunday night when she copped the first ever 'Miss Jamaica Commonwealth' title from among a field of 15 beautiful contestants.
"It is overwhelming," said the beaming 21-year-old. The Ocho Rios resident's winning smile took centre stage on the island west of the Sandal Royal Caribbean Hotel. "I am just so excited... this is just absolutely wonderful."
By virtue of her win, Ms. Green, who wore the sash Ms. NPG Insurance, has earned the right to represent Jamaica in the international leg of the Miss Commonwealth Pageant, slated for the Jamaica Grande Hotel in Ocho Rios, on Saturday, June 5.
While it was all joy for Miss Green, who walked away with a prize package including $50,000 in cash and a trip for two to any Caribbean destination, her selection did not go down well with the majority of the patrons. They were clearly rooting for Gail Davis, who placed third behind Green and Rashida Gopie.
"The best contestant did not win tonight," said an angry female patron as she walked towards the boat that transported patrons from the island. "Davis (Gail) was clearly the most intelligent, she is such a good looking .... and her poise was just unbelievable."
Davis, who wore the sash 'Ms. CVM Television', was greeted with shouts of appreciation each time she walked on stage and when she won the sectional prize for the 'Most Aware' contestant, the screams were deafening. Unfortunately for her, the title, which seemed in her grasp, never materialised.
Janielle Goolgar and Tassia Stewart, who did not make the top five, were adjudged 'Best Figure' and 'Most Talented' respectively.
For the hundreds of patrons it was an afternoon of mixed emotions. In the three appearances that the girls made the response was overwhelming as appreciative whistles and cheers erupted.
The talent section, which featured only six of the 15 contestants, was also well received. The pieces included a hand-painting display by Loni Jones, a karate demonstration by Nicole O'Conner, a skit on domestic violence by Tassia Stewart, a monologue by Gail Davis, a poem about beauty pageants by Janielle Goolgar and expertly done poem entitled 'What about the Jamaican Woman', by Natalie Green.
With the Jamaican leg of the contest now over, the spotlight will now turn on the international leg of the contest which is opened to contestants from all 54 Commonwealth countries.
