Every year, over 1,000 young women try out for the chance to sit on the Rose Parade's Royal Court -- a tradition that began in 1905 and became a permanent part of the Rose Parade in 1929.
This year, Vanessa Natalie Manjarrez of Mayfield Senior School was named Queen of the 2013 Rose Parade, themed "Oh, The Places You'll Go!" The six princesses that will sit with her on the royal court are:
- Kate Alice Benuska, 17, of Maranatha High School
- Tracy Italia Cresta, 17, of La Salle High School
- Victoria Sophia McGregor, 17, of Flintridge Sacred Heart Academy
- Nicole Cherie Nelam, 17, of Pasadena High School
- Sonia Marie Shenoi, 17, of San Marino High School
- Madison Michelle Barili Teodo, 18, of La Canada High School
The teens were put through a month-long interview process that evaluated them based on their personality, poise, public speaking ability and scholastic achievement. In addition to appearing at the 2013 Rose Parade, the court is also expected to represent the Tournament of Roses at over 150 community events.
In return, the local beauties receive a scholarship, new wardrobe and hair and make up services. For the parade, the Royal Court will wear gowns designed by Tadashi Shoji and crowns and tiaras made by Mikimoto.
Those interested in applying for the 2014 Rose Court will have to wait until September 2013 for the interviews to begin again. Applicants must be unmarried and not previously married women without children. They must also be legal Pasadena residents, a full-time student and be between 17 to 21 years old. To learn more about eligibility requirements, check out the Pasadena Tournament of Roses site.
Check out photos of past Royal Courts.
