THE EDITOR, Sir:
TO READ the criticisms levelled at the judges of the recent Miss Jamaica World competition, some from as far from the competition as Canada and the United States, one would believe that Miss Toyloy had no business entering the competition, much less to emerge victorious.
It might, therefore, be useful to examine the criteria, which our judges have used (and soon those in China), will be using to enable them to identify the most well-rounded female to represent the world. There are now new categories, which include facial attractiveness, overall figure, which includes skin and muscle tone, sports and talent abilities.
Let us now examine what Miss Toyloy brought to the table - she was the winner of the Miss Beach Beauty category (which replaces the former best figure) and includes skin and muscle tone; she is an accomplished classical pianist, and in the sports category, her free kick (shown on television) would have earned her admiration from members of the Brazilian women's team.
However, it was the other latent quality, which would have been more visible to the judges, than others, by virtue of their more sustained interaction, which emerged in her interview in your Sunday Edition (03/10/04). To begin with, the full-face close-up of Miss Toyloy displays a stunningly attractive young lady, and the interview conducted by Ms. Alicia Roache reveals a supremely confident, acutely aware and highly intelligent Jamaican. Not since the days of Lisa Hanna have I seen someone capable of conveying the depth of her personality in such a short interview.
Speaking for myself, and I imagine I am qualified to speak for the majority of the viewing public, who took the effort and time to cast their votes in her favour, I am proud to have Miss Toyloy represent me and my country, and I say to her "You go, girl!" and show the world what a true Jamaican beauty is, secure in the knowledge that thousands at home will be cheering you on.
I am, etc.,
HOWARD HAMILTON, Q.C.
72-76 Harbour Street
Kingston
