MercoPress. South Atlantic News Agency

Miss Gibraltar defeats 111 hopefuls to become Miss World 2009

Gibraltar preparing a “royal” welcome for the 22 year old Kaiane

Gibraltar's Kaiane Aldorino claimed the title of Miss World 2009 on Saturday, defeating 111 other hopefuls at a glittering ceremony in South Africa.

“Thank you South Africa, this is the most wonderful moment of my life,” said a tearful Aldorino, whose website describes her as a 22-year-old human resources clerk who loves dancing and spending time with loved ones.

Confetti rained down the stage as Aldorino, representing the British Overseas territory, under dispute with Spain and with a population of less than 30,000, accepted the crown.

Mexico's Perla Beltran came second, with South African entry Tatum Keshwar taking third place.

The African-themed gala event at a Johannesburg convention centre attracted a multi-national crowd, waving country flags and cheering wildly for their favorite contestants.

Miss India, Pooja Chopra, a hot favorite with the crowd, got eliminated in the top 16, after winning the “beauty with a purpose” title for her charity work.

“The build up to this event has been phenomenal, the girls have had a time of their lives in South Africa,” said Chinese television presenter Angela Chow, who hosted the ceremony.

Gibraltar celebrated with a lavish display of fireworks. Chief Minister Peter Caruana described it as a wonderful achievement for Kaiane and for Gibraltar.

“She's a special lady who deserves her huge success. A Gibraltarian again puts Gibraltar on the map! We'll give her a home coming fit for a queen. Congratulations to her and her family” said Caruana.

The Times on Line reported the event saying “Britain was able to claim a victory of sorts in the Miss World competition when Kaiane Aldorino - Miss Gibraltar, and therefore a British national - beat the early favorite, Miss Puerto Rico, to take first place in Johannesburg”.

She also beat off competition from England’s entrant, Lance-Corporal Katrina Hodge - dubbed “Combat Barbie” - along with Miss Scotland, Katharine Brown, Miss Wales, Lucy Whitehouse, and Miss Ireland, Laura Patterson.