Universe Pageant was an experience of a lifetime.

Naomi Darrell yesterday told The Royal Gazette she enjoyed herself at last week's Miss Universe Pageant in Miami, Florida.

"I had a fabulous time,'' she said. "I learned about a lot of different cultures and met some terrific people.

"I learned how 74 girls from around the world can come together, get along and be there for each other.'' Asked about suggestions that the pageant was set up to produce an American winner, Miss Darrell said Miss USA Brook Mahealani deserved to win.

"All pageants around the world are political, but Miss USA represented herself very well,'' she explained. "She had a lot of experience, I think she had been in six pageants leading up to this. She was confident in herself and she deserved it.'' Aside from a hectic schedule, Miss Darrell said her adventure in Florida was smooth sailing.

"I had no problems, we were just crammed for time. We only had two-and-a-half weeks to do everything instead of the usual three-and-a-half-weeks.'' Next on her agenda will we be an appearance in the Heritage Day parade.

"On May 24 I will be at Expo `97 at the Bermuda Athletic Association to cut the ribbon at the official opening,'' Miss Darrell said. "And I will be a judge for the swimsuit competition.

"And on Monday I will appear in the Heritage Day parade.'' Naomi Darrell