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Russian crowned Miss World 2008

(Agencies)
Updated: 2008-12-14 09:57

Ksenya Sukhinova of Russia waves after being crowned Miss World at the Sandton Convention Center in Johannesburg December 13, 2008. [Agencies]

"I think we have been able to showcase the best of what our country has to offer," said judge Lindiwe Mahlangu, the chief executive of Johannesburg tourism.

Beauties from 109 countries and regions were whittled down to 15 semi-finalists with India, Russia, Trinidad and Tobago, Angola and South Africa among the five finalists.

South Africa's Tansey Coetzee had her home crowd on their feet shouting support as her name as a finalist was announced.

The winner of the event, broadcast live to millions of viewers in 187 countries, has to espouse "beauty with a purpose" with charity being one of the main focuses of the pageant.

"Over the years the crown that is worn by the winner is a symbol for fundraising. Miss World herself, this year, the winner from China, she's raised over 30 million dollars in her year in office," Morley said.

"So perhaps from anything else it does a lot of good things for needy children and old people, which I think is important too."

The 51-year-old competition was originally scheduled for October 4 in Kiev, but was delayed in September over security concerns due to the conflict between neighbours Russia and Georgia.

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