Hundreds turn out for model competition

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NEW YORK, Nov. 22 (UPI) -- Nearly 1,500 amateur models took part in the Ford Supermodel of the World Search in New York in an attempt to become famous models, organizers said.

Caroline Poznanski, director of the women's division for Ford Models, said Saturday's open call at the W Hotel was intended to select the one model who will represent the United States in the Supermodel of the World finals, the New York Daily News reported Sunday.

"We're looking for girls who have a special something in their eye," Poznanski said. "They have to be beautiful and they have to have personality."

The supermodel finals are scheduled to take place in Sao Paulo, Brazil, in January and participants will vie for a $250,000 modeling contract.

In addition to the New York audition, nearly 1,000 amateur models flocked to a Los Angeles location to take part a simultaneous open call Saturday.

Sadie Weckel, the first person in line for the New York audition, said was willing to wait in line and endure cold temperatures to get her chance at a fashion industry career.

"I don't care what it takes, I'm going to become a model," Weckel, 19, told the Daily News. "I have determination that doesn't quit."