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Miss Teen USA pageant replaces swimsuits with athletic wear

This photo taken Aug. 8, 2005, shows Susie Castillo, left, Miss Ohio Teen 2005, Allie Leigh LaForce center, and Miss Michigan Teen 2005, Catherine Laurion get excited as they await the announcement of the finalist in the 2005 Miss Teen USA Pageant in baton Rogue, La. The Miss Teen USA pageant is dropping the swimsuit portion of its competition. (Mark Saltz / Associated Press)
Associated Press

LAS VEGAS – The Miss Teen USA pageant is dropping the swimsuit portion of its competition.

The Miss Universe organization announced Wednesday that the pageant will replace the bathing suit section with an athletic wear competition. The 2016 Miss Teen USA pageant will be held in Las Vegas on July 30.

“This decision reflects an important cultural shift we’re all celebrating that empowers women who lead active, purposeful lives and encourage those in their communities to do the same,” Paula M. Shugart, president of The Miss Universe Organization, wrote to state directors.

In a statement, reigning Miss Teen USA Katherine Haik, applauded the move, calling it “a great way to celebrate the active lives that so many young women lead and set a strong example for our peers.”