What has becoming Miss Wales enabled you to do that you otherwise could not?
"I had the chance to go to China for five weeks and represent my country. That was a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. Having represented my country in athletics, it was nice to represent Wales in a glamorous role and learn about different cultures. A lot of doors have opened up for me, and I've had a lot more opportunities than I did before. I'm an ambassador for the Heineken Cup Rugby and I will be attending the final next weekend (21 May 2006). I'm also attending a ball on the eve of the 2006 Miss Wales contest to raise money for Save The Children. The current Miss World - Miss Iceland - will be attending too."
What are the best aspects of becoming Miss Wales?
"I've met some great people and have made really good friends. I've also had an insight into some charities which had really opened up my eyes."
Has Miss Wales changed you in any way?
"It has made me a stronger person."
Why do you think you won Miss Wales?
"It's not just about being a pretty face; you have to have some sort of talent. Representing Wales in athletics since the age of 14 stood me in good stead. They look for a lot more than beauty."
Did you feel the need to alter your appearance either before entering Miss Wales or upon winning the title?
"I didn't feel the need to alter my appearance. At the end of the day the beauty pageants moved on. It's not just about looks; it's about intelligence, having a talent. A lot of girls who enter are extremely talented."
What was it like to take part in the Miss World contest in June 2005?
"It was a great experience. Arriving in Hong Kong airport and meeting all the girls. I made some great friends with whom I'm still in touch. The final was brilliant; I remember having to rehearse dance routines for 2 weeks. Things like when we were having dinner, calling each other by the names of our countries, it was great."
What is a typical day for Miss Wales?
"It can vary; from charity work to modelling and attending functions."
How has your status as Miss Wales helped Aberystwyth?
"I'd like to think I've put Aber on the map. I've done things like helping to promote Aberystwyth events."
How have the locals responded to you as Miss Wales?
"Their support in the Miss World contest was immense. The text messages were lovely to have. It's been great how everyone's supported me."
What advice would you give to people who want to fulfil their dreams/ambitions?
"Just do it. Just do everything that you can and don't miss any opportunities. Don't waste the moment."
Claire was inteviewed by Univeristy of Wales Aberystwyth student Andrew Austin.
your comments
Georgia Wynes, Rhondda
I don't think she meant 'on the map' literally she meant she had been able to explain to people who didn't know where Aberystwyth was (and yes Gerald i'm sure there are plenty across the globe who don't, same way I get asked where is the Rhondda) and what a nice place it is. What's wrong with being proud of your hometown. I met Claire two years ago and I agree with the other girls she is a lovely person and very supportive.
Wed Sep 12 12:42:24 2007
Gerald Yandell, Stn Neots.
I don't think you have put Aber on the map. It's been on the map a long time before you?
Fri Aug 3 20:54:08 2007
Alexandra Morgan
I met Claire when I was a finalist at Miss Wales 2006, where I really couldn't take my eyes off her. She is beautiful and full of confidence. I have been fortunate enough to once again reach the finals this year, and I am looking forward to seeing Sarah Flemming at the Miss Wales Ball, to congratulate her properly and learn as much as I can from her.
Mon Apr 30 15:12:21 2007
Sarah Fleming, Brecon
I met Claire in February at a peak performance/self-motivation seminar where i spoke infront of 10,000 people where she inspired me to enter the Miss Wales comp, striving to succeed and to be as beautiful and graceful as her, i worked my hardest, she kept in contact with me the enitre time... giving me confidence and reminding me of the important things; like just enjoying the experience and living in the moment.I still keep in contact now, and she's like an older, more beautiful sister that i couldn't imagine what'd be like if she hadn't entered my life... i wouldn't have won Miss Wales 2006 in fact!
Sun Apr 8 11:05:18 2007
Nikesha Patel
I met Claire Evans in the Miss Wales competition 2006. Beautiful, unique and ambitious is three words I describe her. I had great advice off her and learnt a lot from her advice thanks to her. Her advice to us was there was much more to this competition than we had thought especially charity work, and thanks to her advice i wouldnt have became Miss Charity.
Fri Feb 2 09:55:50 2007
Kat Roberts, Cardiff
I was also a finalist, and met Claire at the Charity Ball and the following evening at the final! She was brilliant and gave me some really good advise! There were certain comments she made that increased my confidence tremendously! Claire is an extremely intelligent woman whom I look up to! If it wasn't for her, I'm not sure I would have done as well as I did! Her advise to everyone was to keep smiling, and as a result I won Best Smile!
Mon Jun 12 09:15:55 2006
Emily England, Rhondda
I've made it through to the last 30 finalists in the Miss Wales Competition, and feel thrilled to bits. It's an absolutely amazing experience. The final is taking place this Friday and I'm so excited I can't wait. Claire is truly an inspiration, just shows that dreams can come true, and she is very talented. I play piano, have represented Girl Guides three yrs ago in Finland and have nearly completed my Gold D of E award. I know that the competition is not just about a pretty face. It's about talents and personality as well.
Mon Jun 5 09:54:17 2006
Do you know Claire? Have you auditioned to become the next Miss Wales? Add your comments here:
In June 2006, Claire Evans from Aberystwyth relinquished her title as Miss Wales. Before handing back the crown, she spoke to UWA student Andrew Austin about her year in the limelight. 
