Rachel Wilson, a 13-year-old Truckee resident, has been selected to compete in this year’s Miss Junior California pageant.

Wilson, who attends Sierra Mountain Middle School, will represent Truckee and compete against 15 other Californians in the August 13 event.

“I got interested in being in a pageant after I saw ‘Miss Congeniality’ (the recent Sandra Bullock blockbuster) … a few days later I got this application in the mail,” said Wilson.

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Wilson decided to participate and thinks the experience will help build self confidence and improve her communication skills, two goals of the program.

“I kind of want to be an actress and this should help me with that,” said Wilson.

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The pageant will feature three separate categories including an interview, a dress-up contest and an evening gown competition. Wilson has already been practicing her answers to interview questions.

“If I could wish for anything, I would wish for no drugs in Truckee and a sister,” said Wilson.

If Wilson wins she will move on to compete for the Miss Junior America title and earn $1,000.

“Whether she wins anything or not,” said Debbie, Wilson’s mother, “it’s being in front of people that will give her some great experience.”

Wilson is looking for sponsors to help with the cost of the competition. If interested in contributing write to P.O. Box 10796, Truckee CA 96162.