Marissa Teijo, 71, makes history as the oldest contestant to compete in the Miss Texas USA pageant

A 71-year-old woman made history as the oldest contestant to compete in Miss Texas USA contest.

Marissa Teijo joined other contestants who competed in the pageant over the weekend in Houston.

The winner, Arianna Ware, will represent Texas in the Miss USA pageant.

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The Miss Universe organization recently changed its rules to be more inclusive, removing age restrictions for contestants over 18 and allowing women who are married, divorced or pregnant.

Teyo, of El Paso, said in an Instagram post that she is excited to compete and hopes it will “inspire women to strive to be their best physically and mentally and to believe there is beauty at any age.” .

The contestants were judged in three categories: personal interview, swimsuit and evening gown.

The Miss Universe Organization has been embroiled in controversy since Noelia Voigt announced her resignation on May 6.

Voigt, 24, said in an Statement on Instagram that she was stepping down to focus on her mental health, but days later NBC News obtained a copy of Voigt’s resignation letter in which she accused pageant CEO Leila Rose of creating a toxic work environment and failing to address a sexual harassment incident.

Rose released a statement saying she takes the allegations seriously and “the well-being of all individuals associated with Miss USA is my top priority.”

After Voigt relinquished her title, Miss Teen USA UmaSophia Srivastava, 17, stepped down, as did Miss USA social media manager Claudia Michel.

Miss USA Savannah Gankiewicz of Hawaii was crowned the new Miss USA 2023 in Voigt’s place and will hold the position until August when a new winner is announced.

Miss Teen USA runner-up Stephanie Skinner was offered the crown following Srivastava’s resignation, but declined to accept it.