New Ford Supermodel Chosen

New York City’s Studio 54 came alive with excitement in Ford Models' Supermodel of the World Search. Fifteen national finalists strutted down the catwalk in hopes of winning the coveted U.S. title.

The prize - and a chance to compete in the international contest in San Juan, went to Bobette Riales, 19, of Evansville, Ind.

Hosted by former Ford supermodel Vendela and “All My Children” star Cameron Mathison, the event included a fashion show debut of Nautica’s Spring/Summer 2001 collections, as well as a musical performance by Ashley Ballard, an Atlantic Recording artist.

The Ford Supermodel of the World regional search began Aug. 15 and visited 12 cities throughout the U.S. Fifteen finalists were flown to New York where the months-long national search came to an end.

The other U.S. national finalists were Rhyannon Bruce, 21, Suitland, Md.; Hailey Steyn, 14, Ocean Grove, N.J.; Jolene Hanson, 19, Beverly, Mass.; Roslyn Moore, 18, Ormond Beach, Fla.; Ashley Williams, 13, Snellville, Ga.; Anneca Peoples, 14, North Hills, Calif.; Christine Gentry, 15, Gilbert, Ariz.; Heidi McIntosh, 17, Colleyville, Texas; Monica Burke, 13, Redmond, Wash.; Nicole Flood, 15, Vacaville, Calif.; Kate Canestri, 16, Cincinnati, Ohio; Jessica Fuller, 18, Maplewood, Minn.; Kerri McClain, 14, West Orange, N.J.; Teri John, 20, Brooklyn, N.Y.

CBS

Fifteen finalists anxiously await the judges decision

”I feel extremely overwhelmed right now, but very excited at the same time,” Riales said.

The 5’9” beauty will represent the U.S., and compete against contestants from more than 45 other countries in the international contest held in San Juan, Puerto Rico.

The international winner will receive a quarter million-dollar modeling contract with Ford Models. Runners-up will receive contracts totaling $150,000, $100,000 and $75,000.

Written By ZOY AVGERINOS