In a nod to the upcoming Miss Universe pageant, a special Miss Jumbo Universe prize was awarded to the heaviest contestant - Thanchanok Mekkeaw, a 25-year-old political science who was weighed on-stage at 182kg.Judges score the women not only on their performances and an interview, but on how well they exhibit the qualities of an elephant, something of a compliment in a country where the animals still have a respected role.
Thailand's total elephant herd population is nearly 5000, with up to 2000 of them in the wild. Experts have warned that the wild population could be wiped out within 15 years if no action is taken.
Tarnrarin Chansawang,18, (C) poses for a photo with runners up after
winning the Miss Jumbo Queen Contest 2005 in Nakhon Prathom, Thailand.
Contestants for Miss Jumbo Queen Contest pose for photo
Thanchanok Mekkeaw (L) is declared winner in the heaviest woman category .
Thanchanok Mekkeaw (C) poses for photo with other contestants after winning in the heaviest woman category.
Thanchanok weighed the heaviest contestant at 182 kilos.
Mekkeaw poses for a photo after winning the heaviest woman category during the Miss Jumbo Queen Contest 2005.
