Almost Miss Universe | Israel today

I'm a big fan of the Miss Universe pageant, which will be celebrating 70 years next Saturday, here in Israel. Resounding screams about the object have never touched me in the context of it, Suri. No less than any man, and there are women who will thank me for this "wish." Because every woman knows that a compliment from another woman is worth the most.

I have a small history with the international competition, or rather, with the Israeli competition that leads to it.

Nearly 200 years ago - sorry, 16 - I decided to tackle it myself.

I thought that scoring in the Israeli team, which is vying for the title of Israel's beauty queen, is something that will make a noise and improve my chances of winning at least the title of "crowd favorite" - which may bring me a sponsor for the professional pursuit of Olympic sports.

And also because I really feel like this glow.

I well remember the taste of the stamp I licked at the neighborhood post office when I sent a picture of myself shooting at the range, to capture the judges' attention.

I mentioned that it was seventy meters high and signed with an in-depth sentence: "I would love to bring world peace."

For months no one came back to me, but while in Sisyphean training for the World Championships, and at the same time serving in the IDF, I received a surprising phone call from the Beauty Queen contest producer informing me of a direct invitation to the final audition - where 20 of the 25 finalists would be selected. Self to audition, held early in the morning, with an exaggerated sequined dress.because some beauty queen does not wake up on heels.

The conversation with the jury was dignified and matter-of-fact.

They asked her to measure my height to make sure I was accurate, because "if you win and face Miss World, that is the minimum height, and you should not be disqualified, Miss Israel."

Wow, wow, I think I raised a few more inches just from the compliment - what a national responsibility placed on the fantasy on my shoulders.

Just before I left the door I was casually informed that rehearsals and getting ready for the competition would take seven months.

I got a fever.

I was told that because I was a soldier, there was an agreement with the IDF to go on vacation for the purpose of the competition, and to complete the service after that. 

In the elegance of a future beauty queen I explained to the distinguished judges that I serve as an outstanding athlete, his status is won by only one athlete in the archery industry each year, and that if I go on leave from the military in favor of competition, I will have to part with the class.

The answer was direct: "Decide what you want, to be a Miss World or a World Champion."

I replied that I had no dilemma, and thanked for the opportunity. 

A few months later, at the age of 19, I climbed the podium at the World Championships in Croatia.

The bronze medal, which I achieved thanks to years of investment and hard work, was far more valuable than the crown I might have received.

Still, beauty is a gift from God, but to be a champion you have to do much more.

danieller@israelhayom.co.il

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