Raegan Rutty crowned Miss Universe Cayman Islands

By Christopher Tobutt

Raegan Rutty was crowned Miss Universe Cayman Islands in the Westin ballroom which was well attended with over 700 people. The question of the night was, “what is your opinion on the importance of education in combating poverty and inequality?”  When asked if she was ready, Raegan stated, “she was born ready”.  Raegan’s response to the question was “I believe that education is the corner stone of society, by allowing everyone an equal opportunity to education that opens up job opportunities and allows them to further their careers.  In the Cayman Islands, I would love to see the introduction of trade schools so that people who can’t go to university can still thrive here and I believe that by introducing these systems we can ensure there is less inequality because everyone deserves a fair chance at an excellent education.”

1st runner up, Arin Broderick, 2nd runner up was Brianna Wilson.

All of the contestants answered the question very thoughtfully, so it was a hard call for the judges. The final section – when the contestants dress in beautiful evening gowns and each have to answer the same question, accounts for 50 percent of the weighting in the overall scrore, was very tense.

Earlier in the evening the contestants wowed the audience with a stunning opening number.

Later the contestants donned swimsuits – each section was carried out with poise and style and dripped with class. There was singing from Rico Rolando and an amazing upcoming singing star, Jhenelle Colquhoon whose voice was incredible. Darrell Dacres had the honour of serenading the new Queen, with the traditional song, “My Caymanian Girl.”

There were 6 contestants:

Contestant #1: Arin Broderick, 24, representing George Town;

Contestant #3: Brianna Wilson, 31, representing Bodden Town;

Contestant #4: Raegan Rutty, 22, representing East End

Contestant #5: Tiea McLaughlin, 23, representing Bodden Town;

Contestant #6: Tracey Campbell, 19, and Contestant #7: Zhané Rambaran, 27, representing George Town;

National Director, Derri Lee stated in her remarks, “ We received 14 applications from potential contestants this year, which is historical.  Some of the ladies aspiring to enter the pageant are very proactive and preparing to enter next year.

You know last year the organization was rising from the ashes, but this year we are soaring like an eagle flying toward the hearts of the universe.  Look at God’s work!  “

The opening was choreographed by former Miss Universe Cayman Islands 2020, Mariah Tibbetts.

The National Director thanked major sponsors including the Ministry of Tourism & Ports, Ministry of Border Control & Labour, Compass Media, Radio Cayman, Cayman Airways, Kings Sports Center, Kirk Freeport, Caymanian Times and the Finishing Touch.

Derri Lee’s advice to the 6 contestants, “To close I would like to wish each of the contestants the very best of luck.  My advice is to never give up on your dreams or yourself.  We live in a world with so much uncertainty but if you surround yourselves with positivity, remove the negative no matter how difficult it can be, you stay in peace and confidence knowing there is hope and that you can do all things through Christ.”

Prizes included scholarships and employment.

Raegan, a 2020 Olympian, breaking barriers by being the tallest gymnast in the world will be representing the Cayman Islands in Mexico on 16 November.

The Committee will begin preparing Raegan for Miss Universe as early as next week.