Marissa Teijo, a 71-year-old resident of El Paso, Texas, made history by becoming the oldest contestant to compete in the Miss Texas USA pageant. Teijo's participation shattered barriers as she is not only the oldest contestant but also married, a mother, and previously divorced - all of which were disqualifiers until the pageant rules changed last year.
Teijo's journey began on a cotton and maize farm in Lazbuddie, Texas, where she developed a love for being active through hard work. As an adult, she ventured into running, gym workouts, and even bodybuilding competitions, amassing twelve trophies along the way.
After retiring as a second-grade teacher during the pandemic, Teijo joined a modeling agency and was encouraged to compete in a local pageant. Despite initial doubts, she embraced the opportunity to inspire others with her healthy lifestyle.
To prepare for the pageant, Teijo hired a tough trainer and intensified her weightlifting routine, surpassing her own fitness goals. Despite facing challenges during rehearsals, her fellow contestants showed kindness and support, boosting her confidence for the competition.
Although she did not win the Miss Texas USA title, Teijo's main goal was to inspire women of all ages to prioritize health and fitness. She emphasized the importance of staying active, especially through weightlifting and healthy eating, for overall well-being and strength as one ages.
Teijo's courage and determination have garnered widespread admiration, with positive comments flooding her social media accounts and fellow contestants praising her beauty and strength. Her inspiring journey serves as a reminder that age is no barrier to pursuing one's passions and promoting a healthy lifestyle.
