Oversized white long sleeves. Blue jeans. Big black boots. I would have easily passed as a model for The Equestrian Corner apparel. Or not.

I was 12 years old and it was my first beauty contest. I wanted my sports attire to be unique so instead of the usual tennis ensemble which was all the rage back then for beauty contests, I chose an equestrian attire.

It must have helped me stand out too since I won first runner up.

During those rare occasions when I chance upon Miss Universe telecasts, I get flashbacks from my beauty pageant days.

When I look at old pictures, it still amazes and amuses me how I was able to win my first crown at 12. It amuses me because I looked like a ghost in some of my pictures, skin tone foundations weren’t really in use back then.

It amazes me because I remember being extremely focused on winning during that time. I would imagine myself walking on the stage and being crowned. And it always happened.

I guess girls at one time or another have had that fantasy. For my part, it was good to have fulfilled that fantasy early. It gave me the confidence to know I could achieve anything I want if I’m focused on it.