Grace Burgess admits it will be somewhat sad when she relinquishes her crown as Miss Tennessee, Saturday, but there’s work to be done beforehand.

Burgess was at rehearsals for the Miss Tennessee Scholarship Pageant Wednesday afternoon in preparation for the 65th annual event, which begins at 8 p.m., today, at the Carl Perkins Civic Center.

“It’s really bittersweet … more bitter than sweet for me, because I have loved this job,” Burgess said. “But we will crown a great Miss Tennessee, someone who is incredible, intelligent and talented, because we have great young women competing.”

The 36 contestants are vying for $92,000 in scholarship funds, and the opportunity to compete in the Miss America Pageant.

Competition continues at 8 p.m., Thursday, Friday and the final, Saturday evening.

Besides claiming the title of Miss Tennessee, the winner receives $13,000 in scholarships.

The first runner-up receives $9,000, with $7,000 going to the contestant selected third; $6,000
Contestants six through 10 receive $3,000 each, and each contestant is guaranteed $1,000 for participation.

(PHOTO: Grace Burgess, Miss Tennessee 2016 sings during rehearsals at the Carl Perkins Civic Center, Wednesday.
David Thomas, Twitter – @DavidThomasWNWS
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