Alexandra Helga Ivarsdottir, representing Iceland, joins Mexico and Russia in the Top 15 of Miss World 2008 as she was crowned Sportswoman at Muldsersdrift in South Africa.

Alexandra received her trophy from Marc Batchelor, South Africa football striker, at Glenburn Lodge, Muldsersdrift.

Almost all of this year’s 109 contestants participated in a range of sporting activities as one of the fast-track event of the pageant. The contestants were split into four groups and competed in teams called the Ekurhuleni Buffalos, Jo`burg Leopards, Tshwane Rhinos and the Sedibeng Lions.

The sports activities started with each team building a boat made entirely from cardboard and plastic sheeting. Other activities included a 50-metre sprint, and cricket. Each contestant’s performance was individually recorded to identify the day’s best competitor and ultimately the Miss World Sportswoman 2008.

At the end of the day the top six contestants battled it out in front of the goal, each taking six penalty kicks. The group included Greece; Israel; Iceland; Nigeria; Portugal and Peru. But it was Iceland who impressed her contestants by scoring all six from the spot – it was this performance that clinched her the title, Miss World Sportswoman 2008.

Iceland is now guaranteed a place in the Semi Final line-up in this year’s Miss World pageant happening at the Sandton Convention Centre, Johannesburg on December 13, 2008. 12 slots remain and three more fast-track events are up for grabs – Talent, Beauty with a Purpose and Miss People’s Choice.

Please support our delegate Danielle Castaño to win the People’s Choice Award and earn her a ticket in the semi-finals. To vote for her, visit Miss World Official Website.

Photo Credit: www.missworld.com