Journal Staff
Sarnia’s Michelle McKay came oh-so-close to representing Canada at the Miss Universe pageant.
The 25-year-old teacher was first runner-up at the Miss Universe Canada event, held May 23 in Toronto.
She lost out to Paola Nunez of Toronto, who advances to the 63rd annual Miss Universe Pageant, at a location yet to be announced.
From a field of 57 contestants McKay advanced to become one of five finalists in the pageant, which included an interview, evening dress round, and bikini round.
In addition to coming in second, she won special awards for Best Hair and Best Body.
Now living in Toronto, McKay says she is proud to tell people she hails from Sarnia, and lists her family as the most important thing in her life.
While growing up, the Northern Collegiate grad was a competitive gymnast and dancer, and worked as a professional model while attending the University of Windsor.
McKay recently worked a year teaching French with the Lambton Kent District School Board, and is now pursuing a full-time career in education.