Do you know how many species of peaches are grown in Chilton County?

Contestants in the 2009 Miss Peach Queen Pageant know the answer.

The 13 young women in the pageant studied for weeks to learn countless facts about the fruit for which our county is famous.

During Thursday night’s pageant, contestants spoke with poise and confidence about peach farming and its impact on Chilton County.

While the pageant did have the swimsuit and evening wear portions that you would expect, the competition was much more than a beauty contest.

All the young women showed great intelligence in their answers.

Congratulations to Keela Ray on winning the Peach Queen title. After winning, the 17-year-old said she looks forward to representing Chilton County and its peach growers.

“I just can’t believe I won. I always wanted to be Peach Queen and now my dream has become a reality,” Ray said after winning.

Good luck, Keela, this coming year. We know you’ll do great.