Arkansas Tech University student Gracey Cantrell entered the 2018 Miss Arkansas State Fair Queen competition with one goal in mind.
“I can’t tell you enough how badly I wanted this title,” said Cantrell.
A freshman from Amity, Cantrell won the crown during the final round of competition in Little Rock on Saturday, Oct. 20.
She qualified for the Arkansas State Fair Queen competition by winning the 2018 Miss Pike County title.
“Winning Miss Pike County and representing my hometown full of family and friends is what I had wanted since I started competing in pageants when I was younger,” said Cantrell. “I was extremely happy to be crowned Miss Pike County and was looking forward to state. Although I had done pageants previously, this was my first time competing for Miss Arkansas State Fair Queen.”
Cantrell had previously won the 2014 Miss Teen Seafair crown and the 2018 Miss Caddo River Fest title.
She was crowned 2018 Miss Arkansas State Fair Queen by fellow ATU student Kara Dickens of Cedarville, 2017 Miss Arkansas State Fair Queen.
“I am so thankful and honored to not only represent my county and hometown, but every other county in Arkansas as well,” said Cantrell. “I have already made so many memories and have gained new friendships along the way. I look forward to this new journey during the year of my reign.”
Cantrell is majoring in recreation and park administration at ATU with an emphasis in therapeutic recreation.
