The future Miss Louisiana? – One of two locals could be crowned June 29

A new Miss Louisiana will be crowned on Saturday, June 29. Of the 36 young women competing for the title in this, the 50th anniversary of the competition, and the chance to represent the Bayou State in the Miss America pageant later this year are not one, but two locals: Lacey Sanchez and Carley McCord. 225 spoke with both leading up to the big night.

Lacey Sanchez
Icy-hot, track spikes, stage make-up and diamond earrings make for an interesting mix. These are token items used by LSU pole-vaulter Lacey Sanchez who also happens to be Miss Capital City competing in the Miss Louisiana pageant this week.

Born and raised in the Red Stick, Sanchez says she spent a lot of time hunting and fishing with her family.

“I was a major tom boy,” she says. “If I didn’t have a bow in my hair as a baby I definitely looked like a boy.”

A relative newcomer to the pageant world, Sanchez began competing two years ago during her sophomore year of college. That year she was ready to vie for the state title but had to drop out for health reasons. She considers this year’s competition her comeback.

Unlike most contestants, Sanchez doesn’t get nervous speaking in public but struggles with the natural “girly” aspects like makeup and wearing heels.

“I’ve spent the majority of my life in tennis shoes and track spikes,” she laughs. “I put on a pair of heels and look like I’m walking on hot coals so I have to practice a lot.”

Sanchez says she has a huge appreciation and pride for her home state.

“No where in the country can you find hospitality, food, culture, sportsman’s paradise, football, fun and love like you can in Louisiana.”

Follow Sanchez on Twitter @laceysan.

Carley McCord
Miss Greater Baton Rouge contestant Carley McCord might fit more of the pageant stereotypes with her ultra-feminine tendencies, except there’s her complete obsession with football and all things sports-related.

“I play in at least three fantasy football leagues each year,” McCord says. “I follow the draft like the back of my hand and I am constantly on top of ESPN news.”

Currently a graduate student at SLU studying communications, McCord wants to be a sports broadcaster after graduation. She loves putting all of her energy into her work, but saves enough energy to run 40 miles a week.

For the talent portion of the show, she will sing Leonard Cohen’s “Hallelujah,” but says the most difficult aspect of the Miss Louisiana pageant is the interview. To prep, she reads and studies current events and important issues facing our area cities, the state and country in the days leading up to the event.

“From politics and religion to personal questions, you have to be ready to answer any form of question thrown your way.”

Follow McCord on Twitter @CarleyluvSaints.