Miss Teen USA Pageant Dropping Swimsuit Portion Of Competition

LAS VEGAS (CBSNewYork/AP) — The Miss Teen USA pageant is dropping the swimsuit portion of its competition.

The Miss Universe organization announced Wednesday that the pageant will replace the bathing suit section with an athletic wear competition.

"This decision reflects an important cultural shift we're all celebrating that empowers women who lead active, purposeful lives and encourage those in their communities to do the same," Paula M. Shugart, president of The Miss Universe Organization, wrote to state directors.

USA Today reports that the shift is intended focus more on fitness and well-being for the young competitors, who range from ages 15 to 19.

In a statement, reigning Miss Teen USA Katherine Haik, applauded the move, calling it "a great way to celebrate the active lives that so many young women lead and set a strong example for our peers."

The change got mixed reactions from fans on Twitter:

It was unclear whether or not the Miss USA 2016 pageant will follow suit, but Julianne Hough, the show's host and creative producer, said in an earlier USA Today interview that they were considering changes to the

Julianne Hough, the host and creative producer for this year's Miss USA events, said that changes could be in the works for that competition as well. No changes, if any, have been confirmed.

The 2016 Miss Teen USA pageant will be held in Las Vegas on July 30.

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