By Gabriela Gastelum
The 4th annual “Mr. Pueblo Warrior” pageant generated great enthusiasm and professionalism on Friday, Feb. 13, in the auditorium.
As in the previous three years, 10 male contestants from the senior class representing different clubs all competed for the title. In the end—after dynamic, original performances—Santos Barbosa humbly accepted the crown.
Ms. Sarah Wilson (radio teacher) and Mr. Jesus Orduño (Spanish teacher) emceed the event, and senior Julie Harrison was the student host.
All contestants had the privilege of having a female escort, and the contestants showcased their talents, as well as competed in a “swimsuit” segment. Each contestant presented his escort with a meaningful, heart-felt gift, making the judges’ final decision very challenging.
In the end, the judges chose the final four: (4) Matthew Raper; (3) Jose Angel Toro; Victor Garcia (the runner-up), and the victor, Santos Barbosa.
Barbosa said, “My experience for the pageant was beast! It was a real blessing to spend time with my family and friends, and I put a lot of hard work and effort towards it.” He paused and added, “I felt really excited and unexpected when I won the pageant—the competition was really challenging.”
Third placer Jose Toro said, “The entire evening was really great! I had a good time presenting my stand-up comedy act, and I’m really glad people enjoyed it and laughed at my jokes. I was a little worried that nobody would laugh.” Toro added, “I really thought that I wasn’t going to place in the Top Three, so I was really surprised.”
All of the contestants expressed their own form of victory.
“Although I joined the competition late, I had a lot of fun,” said Albert Nieblas. “In the end, I feel that Santos was a great competitor and definitely earned the crown.” He added, “I think the Mr. Warrior Pageant should be continued as long as Pueblo High School is up and running”
Mr. Augustine Romero, Pueblo’s principal, said that he enjoyed watching his first Mr. Warrior pageant. “The pageant was a great experience! I am glad that I was able to share this event with my family and friends. It’s clear that a lot of hard work went into the preparation of this pageant. It was amazing!”