MISS Japan, Eruza Sasaki, beat 111 contestants in the sports leg of the Miss World competition held in Port Elizabeth yesterday.

Sasaki has guaranteed herself a spot in the top 20 for the final event in Johannesburg on December 12.

2010 World Cup Local Organising Committee head Danny Jordaan handed medals to the top three contestants after the international event at the Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium.

“This is very special for the city. Port Elizabeth has built up a reputation of being able to host big international events.

“This goes to show that this host city has marketed itself well,” Jordaan said, “and the girls will be ambassadors for their countries and South Africa. They will go back taking a good message home.” The competition involved tasks by four teams – the “Black Rhinos”, “African Penguins”, “Martial Eagles” and “Cheetahs”. Twelve contestants were chosen from each team. The tasks included penalty shootouts, an obstacle course and a relay race.

From there, the 12 women with the most points were identified. They then competed in the individual challenges. These involved finding their way around and under a cargo net, jumping in a set of tyres and finishing off with a sprint. The six contestants who made the fastest times then had to sprint halfway across the soccer field.

Miss Venezuela, Maria Milagros Veliz Pinto, was the fastest runner.

The overall winner was determined by counting up all the points.

“I am happy and excited to have won the overall challenge. I did my absolute best and I am happy to be one of the top 20 contestants for the final round,” Sasaki said. Jamaica’s Kerrie Simone Baylis came second and Hungary’s Orsolya Serdult third.

South Africa’s Tatum Keshwa confessed to not being sporty and said she hoped to do well in the Miss Fashion Model and Beauty with a Purpose competitions, which would showcase her charitable involvement during her reign. She also hoped to do well in the Beach Body contest. “I trust myself in these three competitions the most, so South Africa, come out and support your girl,” Keshwa said.

Eastern Cape Tourism Board chief executive officer Zola Tshefu said she was pleased about hosting the contestants during their three-day visit.

“Everything has run smoothly, which is pleasantly surprising,” Tshefu said.

The visit comes to an end today. The contestants will be heading to other cities, including Durban and Polokwane.

The final competition will be held on December 12 in Johannesburg.