Two beauty pageant competitors, Chloe McEwen, 22, and Lisa Ellis, 27, faced a terrifying experience while climbing in the Pennines. Straying six miles from their route during the Three Peaks challenge, they contacted Mountain Rescue after night had fallen and they were lost in freezing conditions. Despite being physically fit and well-prepared with food and warm clothing, they lacked a backup map and compass. Chloe, who is set to represent Yorkshire in the upcoming Miss England competition, described feeling lucky to descend safely from Ingleborough Peak where they had been stranded. Lisa made a fearful call to emergency services from the top, leading to their rescue.
The incident highlights the importance of preparation and caution while embarking on challenging treks. Chloe advises climbers to have experienced guides, avoid setting off too late, and heed weather conditions. Although they wanted to complete the trek for charity, they could have avoided the perilous situation by turning back or seeking expert guidance. Grateful to Mountain Rescue for their assistance, Chloe reflects on the lesson learned from the harrowing experience. She encourages climbers attempting the Three Peaks challenge to prioritize safety, stay vigilant, and not take unnecessary risks, especially after dark.
Chloe’s journey to the Miss England finals has been shaped by her personal struggles with mental health. Having raised funds for the charity Mind, she volunteers for, she aims to inspire and support others dealing with similar issues. Training as a personal trainer and adopting holistic practices like mindfulness and meditation have helped Chloe overcome her challenges. Aiming to break the stereotypes associated with beauty pageants, Miss England contestants like Chloe are required to demonstrate their impact on others’ lives, promoting values beyond mere physical appearance.
From overcoming a breakdown at 16 to thriving in a successful career and beauty pageant, Chloe’s story is one of resilience and transformation. Supported by Out As Humans, a platform that humanizes leaders, Chloe plans to leverage her experiences to inspire others facing mental health struggles. As she raises funds for Balls To Cancer, the designated charity of Miss England, Chloe’s journey embodies a shift towards a more compassionate and impactful beauty pageant landscape. Her advocacy for mental health awareness and her commitment to making a difference through her platform reflect a broader societal shift towards inclusivity and support for diverse narratives.
The close call in the Pennines serves as a reminder of the risks associated with outdoor activities and the importance of being prepared. While Chloe and Lisa’s situation ended safely thanks to the prompt response of Mountain Rescue, the incident underscores the need for vigilance and caution in challenging environments. As Chloe continues her journey towards the Miss England finals, her focus on mental health advocacy and charitable work highlights the evolving role of beauty pageant contestants as influencers and agents of change. By sharing her story and using her platform to support those in need, Chloe embodies a new generation of beauty pageant competitors with a purpose beyond traditional beauty standards.
