Marissa Teijo never gave up on her dream of competing in the Miss Texas USA pageant and she certainly wasn't going to let her advancing age stop her. Teijo, who is now 71, competed in the prestigious pageant this year. Despite not taking the crown, Teijo says the experience was "incredible.
" Aarienna Ware was ultimately crowned the winner June 22. Teijo, who has now set the record for the oldest contestant in the history of the pageant , has shared her journey on social media to inspire others to never give up on their own dreams. READ MORE: Pirates of the Caribbean star killed in shark attack Explaining her decision to sign up to the pageant on Instagram, she says: "I am delighted to be a part of this incredible new experience as a contestant in the Miss Texas USA pageant.
"In doing so, I hope to inspire women to strive to be their best physical and mental self and believe there is beauty at any age." Teijo spoke of her initial "misgivings" before entering the pageant via her modeling agency Bazaar Model Management. "I began to realise I could do it and inspire older ladies and young ones too that there is beauty at any age if you lead a healthy and active lifestyle.
So, that became my goal instead of just striving to win," Teijo said. READ MORE: Princess Anne hospitalised with head injuries "Overall, I believe my goal in entering the pageant was achieved, and I can truly say it was an amazing fairytale experience, one that I never ever dreamed I would be experienc.