Just ask 17-year-old Ancaster resident Terri Faloney, a finalist in this year’s Miss Teen Canada- World competition.

Until recently, the only insight she had into world of beauty pageants came from TV shows and movies like Miss Congeniality.

During a grueling weekend of December 6 and 7, Terri spent 13 hour work days, practicing her dance routine, walking in high heels and having her make-up done.

“It was very fun, but also very tiring and a lot of work,” Terri said. “But overall it was definitely worth it.”

By finishing sixth in the Ontario finals, Terri will compete to become Canada’s finalist at the 2009 Miss Teen Canada-World competition.

More than 400 applied and an estimated 40 competitors were chosen to compete at this month’s Ontario regional event at Toronto’s Jane Mallett Theatre.

The competition includes an interview, evening gown and swimsuit portion. Terri said the judges focus on moral character, poise, confidence and physical fitness when selecting a winner.

“It’s a lot more work than people think it is,” Terri said.

During the interview portion, Terri spoke about colorectal cancer, as a tribute to her late grandfather, Bernie Faloney. A Hamilton football legend and CFL hall of famer, Bernie Faloney led the Tiger-Cats to four Grey Cup victories in the 1950s and 60s. He’s been listed among the CFL’s top- 50 players of all time. Colorectal cancer claimed his life in 1999.

With a potential acting career on the horizon, Terri also hopes to make her name known internationally. She plans to use her experience in Miss Teen Canada as a stepping stone to a career in film and television.

“I really like to do comedy, but also drama,” Terri said.

She’s currently attending John Robert Powers acting and modeling school in Toronto.

Terri was recruited by a talent agent after visiting an information kiosk in a local shopping mall. She underwent a long application and audition process to gain acceptance.

“I realized I could actually do this,” Terri said.

The academy requires students to maintain a high academic average. Classes typically take place during evenings and weekends.

In addition to her budding career as an actress and model, Terri is also a standout athlete. She has captained her school volleyball team for three years at Hillfield Strathallan College.

She’s also volunteered for several events, including a fundraising volleyball tournament in support of Neighbour to Neighbour Centre, the annual Bernie Faloney Golf Tournament, and as a 50/50 ticket seller at a Tiger-Cat game in support of the Hamilton SPCA.

Hamilton’s famous football family anxiously awaits Terri’s participation in next summer’s national finals. The event includes $25,000 in prize money.