Miss Universe Canada contestants rehearse in Toronto

Jack Boland

Published:  August 13, 2019

Contestants competing in this week’s Miss Universe Canada 2019 pageant are in Toronto this week. (Jack Boland, Toronto Sun)

Bandages, blisters, flailing arms and cramping legs — welcome to Miss Universe Canada dance rehearsals.

Over 50 delegates from across Canada are in Toronto this week getting ready to crown this year’s “Canadian Beauty” Saturday night at the Toronto Centre for the Performing Arts.

On Tuesday, more than 50 contestants from coast-to-coast were at City Hall to pose with the Toronto sign and receive letters of congradulation from Mayor John Tory, before heading to a dance rehearsal at the Sony Centre.

Sasha Lombardi, of Woodbridge, is back for her fourth consecutive year competing.

“It feels fantastic and I feel very relaxed, I can’t describe it. I think its my year,” said Lombardi. “Ever single year is different you grow and develop.”

“You take away a different lesson every time.

“I believe its my destiny to go to Miss Universe and represent Canada,” said Lombardi. “And I hope to represent Canada after I give up my Miss Eco Canada title.”

Toronto’s Jennifer Zheng, who is studying at the University of Toronto to become a doctor, said things have been “hectic” this week. Zheng was also featured as Tuesday’s SUNshine Girl.

Svetlana Mamaeva, originally from Moldova, recently graduated the Schulich School of Business is now at Harvard working on business communications.

“Things are going great I’m surviving,” said Mamaeva. “I’m trying to feel grateful … because I know it is a once-in-a-life-time opportunity.”

https://torontosun.com/news/local-news/miss-universe-canada-contestants-rehearse-in-toronto