Today, meet RussAnna Dudley. She is easily recognizable by her courage and unicorn horn. RussAnna actually started competing right out of school and has even had a go at Nailympia and NailPro competitions. Here is Argentina from her point of view:

This opportunity to compete in Argentina was a milestone in my career. It was my first competition out of the country, first time on a runway, first time needing an interpreter, and the list goes on. This competition was unlike any other competition that I have competed in. To start off, they have different and interesting categories. Living art was where you have to take an everyday object and create something unique with nail products. The fantasy category is an event. Models enter one at a time to walk the runway. Music and video plays while the model walks. There were several pieces that had additional performers to help in telling the story. The passion and energy in that room was so emotional. I left feeling that this is how fantasy should be presented. 

With each category of competition, the judges made sure every competitor’s model was checked, signed in invisible ink, had multiple numbers that changed often, and had their hands photographed before the time started. Competitors and judges could not have their phones out during the competition. They go to extraordinary measures to make sure there is no cheating. As I mentioned earlier, there were multiple numbers for the model. The first number is issued at registration. We tape the armband to the model. Once time is up, the model takes the sheet where the competitor signed in invisible ink and goes to stand in line. At that time, a judge cuts the band from their wrist and is issued a new number. Finally, the last number is written on the score sheet in invisible ink. I asked Lysa Comfort why so many numbers. She told me it was to make sure that there was no favoritism or cheating. 

Being able to compete in Argentina was an experience I will never forget. Each competition is different. What does stay the same with each competition is the nervousness, the passion, the excitement, and friendships made. With each competition comes new adventures and new opportunities. I am looking forward to my next one.