The Observer

Twenty-nine young ladies, all sponsored by organizations at Olive Branch High School, took part in the first-ever Miss Conquistador Pageant on Oct. 17 in the school gym.

Katie Jean Brandon, the 17-year-old daughter of Michelle and Tim Brandon who was sponsored by the OBHS track team, was selected by the judges as the pageant’s inaugural winner. The event served as a fundraiser for the school’s softball team.

Following the interview, casual wear and formal wear competitions, the judges narrowed the field from the original 29 to a Top 12. Chosen were Kristan Clement, Jessica Correia, Martha Poole, Argerie Marin, Madison Sowell, Brandon, Kaitlyn Grant, Molly Mills, Joanna Sudduth, Hannah Hoggard, Tracie West and Lauren Moscato.

From the Top 12 the judges selected Sudduth as third runner-up, Mills as second runner-up, Correia as first runner-up and Brandon as Miss Conquistador. Hannah Bennett was named Miss Congeniality, while Poole was selected Most Photogenic by an audience vote.

(Photos by Jamie Mercer)