The competition was fierce for this year’s Miss Blueberry Queen, but Shelby St. Amant bested five other contestants to receive a dazzling crown and the coveted title.
What was it like being up on stage?
It was a lot of fun. I wasn’t nervous waiting, but, as soon as I got on stage, the nerves kicked in.
How did you feel about winning the title of Miss Blueberry Queen?
I was surprised. I thought there was tough competition. It was a blessing that I won.
What do you like about pageants?
Every pageant, I am able to build self-confidence about myself. You can learn to speak well in front of a lot of people.
What is the hardest thing about pageants?
The hardest thing is getting in front of people on stage. Everyone is looking at you. They are judging your hair, makeup, dress and how you talk. You want to look good and sound good.
What advice do you have for girls who do the Blueberry Pageant next year?
Win or lose, you are always a winner. You don’t have to have a crown to tell you that. I feel pageants are a self-confidence-building experience that everyone should do.
Are you excited for festival?
I have never been, but I hear it is a lot of fun. I am excited just to be part of the festival. I’m looking forward to representing the festival as queen.
AT A GLANCE
Shelby St. Amant,19
SCHOOL: Hillsborough Community College
EXTRACURRICULAR ACTIVITIES: After HCC, Shelby plans to transfer to Florida State University to major in sports management and law. She hopes to use her degree to become a sports agent or coordinator. Shelby enjoys clogging, line dancing, volunteering at Shriners Hospital for Children and being a member of the Newsome FFA Alumni.
PAGEANT EXPERIENCE: Little Miss Plant City, Hillsborough Harvest Queen, Florida Strawberry Festival Queen Pageant, Pioneer Heritage Sweetheart Pageant
FAMILY: Parents Robert and Whitney St. Amant; older sister, Courtney