It was an evening of entertainment, drama, talent and lessons on the environment at the ARG on Friday July 30th as the Jaycees' "Tropical Paradise" themed evening rolled out. Approximately 2,000 people attended the annual event to enjoy the talent young ladies.

The opening Q&A was an excellent introduction to the contestants with questions being asked of each firstly about themselves and secondly about the environment. Overall, this was handled fairly well by all the Queen hopefuls. Miss Jamaica, Tamara Martina Dickens was notable as being very articulate; which will no doubt serve her well as an attorney-at-law.

The swimwear segment of the show followed with all the delegates showcasing interesting and fashionable swimsuits. Immediately thereafter, each lady presented traditional costumes from their respective islands. The outfits were absolutely stunning and wowed the audience.

The talent segment was a variety of creativity from a solid pan performance by Trinidad & Tobago's delegate Cherrese De Abreau, to a hilarious monologue by Tamara Martina Dickens, of an airport traveller rationalising an overweight bag of rum and breadfruit. A string of performances of extremely dramatic victims of abuse were presented (some in dance, others in monologues); which were met with mixed reactions from the audience.

Evening wear was the last segment of the competition again presenting all the beauty and style of each competitor. Some maximised their efforts to tie in environmental awareness and fashion.

Judging was efficient and due to the quality of delegates was no doubt close. Finally Marcia Baptiste of Dominica was crowned the Miss Jaycees Caribbean Queen. In addition, she won the Best Evening Wear Award and was awarded the title of "Most Environmentally-friendly Contestant". Miss Dominica is no stranger to crowns as she recently won the Miss Caribbean World title in Tortola in June.

St. Lucia's Iva Christina Satney was the 3rd runner-up, St. Kitts & Nevis' Sudeakka Francis was 2nd runner-up and Anguilla's Sangreena Harris was 1st runner-up.

Congratulations to the Jaycees' team as they presented a professional show. As well, kudos to all the delegates who attended, competed and represented their countries with dignity and professionalism.

In tandem with the Environmental Awareness Group of Antigua & Barbuda, an eco-hike excursion and visit to ABWREC (Antigua's recycling plant) were co-ordinated. 365antigua.com was pleased to participate as a media sponsor for the event.

To view photos from the hike, please click here. To enjoy photography of the competition itself, click the link below.