Gracie Hunt, 22, just competed in the Miss USA pageant. Though she wasn't crowned the winner, it was still an incredibly special night. What made it even more special for the young woman, who was crowned Miss Kansas in April, was that she was following in her own mother's footsteps.
Gracie's mom, Tavia Hunt, was crowned Miss Kansas USA back in 1993. Then she went on to compete in the Miss USA pageant and was actually the second runner-up.
Gracie said that being able to share the experience with someone who has actually "been down that road before" is really an incredible thing.
Gracie said that a lot is different from when her mom competed. Mainly, she pointed to social media, saying that it's now a huge component of the role of Miss USA. "It was a different culture," she said.
She also gave her mom a shout-out on her own social media. “I can’t express how much I love you. Thank you for your wisdom, sacrifices, and all of effort you’ve poured into walking this journey alongside me. Thank you for being my role model and best friend. I wouldn’t be here today without you. @Taviahunt,” she wrote.
Gracie placed in the Top 16. Miss Kentucky, Elle Smith, was crowned this year’s Miss USA.
