Miss Mexico Elisa Najera was judged the “Queen of Vinpearl” as she outperformed 79 other Miss Universe 2008 contestants in the Swimwear Show held in the coastal city of Nha Trang.

As the winner of the event, the 21-year-old beauty, received a crystal trophy and US$2,000 in cash.

“I am very happy and proud to have won this event,” Najera said.

“All of the girls looked stunning in their bikinis and the jurors surely must have had a difficult decision to make.

“The award is a great encouragement for me as I prepare to compete in the next several events in the days ahead,” Najera added.

She headlined the top five girls – including Miss India, Miss USA, Miss Colombia, Miss Spain – at the event organized by Thanh Nien at the Vinpearl Land Resort on one of Vietnam’s most beautiful islands – Tre Island.

The Swimwear Show, the third event on this year’s list of “mini-competitions,” may have been the most anticipated occasion for local reporters as it serves as the last chance for correspondents to meet with and photograph the international contestants.

Vinpearl Land’s Music Water Stage was packed with thousands of audiences screaming in delight as they witnessed the 80 girls strut about in their swimsuits on a special night that featured performances by local artists as well as a spectacular display of special effects.

Wednesday morning, the contestants had given the media a glimpse of what was to come by gathering poolside at the Diamond Bay Resort to pose in swimwear, attracting the attendance of more than 50 international and local correspondents.

The first two mini-competitions were the Traditional Costume presentation and the Ao Dai Fashion Show.

In the next few days, the girls will conduct interviews with designated jurors and participate in the Presentation Show and Dress Rehearsal from July 5-8.

Fifteen girls will then be selected to compete in the finale, to be broadcast live worldwide via America’s NBC channel on July 13.