AKB48�s former member, Watanabe Shiho, won second place for the beauty pageant contest, �2011 Miss Earth Japan� as �Miss Air Japan,� earlier today. Watanabe, who wore bikinis and dresses at this event, said, �It is vexing [that I was not able win first place] but at the same time, I feel a sense of satisfaction as well.� She then announced, �From now on, I want to do my activities as a part of Miss Air and would like to challenge myself with modeling.�

At this contest, she was able to place herself in the runner-up position amongst the 23 finalists, who participated in one of the world's four largest beauty pageants. In the final selection, Watanabe showcased her appeal with her graceful movements and said, �I was not that nervous for this competition; probably because I have experience with standing in front of crowds of people while performing,� she referred with confidence to her experience as a former AKB48 member.

Watanabe joined AKB48 in its earlier days and graduated in October of 2007. Regarding this, Watanabe commented, �In AKB, I barely stood out.� But then she continued with a bright expression, �But, it was a good experience.� She then stated that she is still in touch as friends with AKB48�s Maeda Atsuko and said, �I think I will contact her to let her know I won. Even though it�s second place, I still want to contact her.�

Watanabe, alongside the winner of Miss Earth Japan, Maeda Tomoko, will participate in the world beauty pageant in Pattaya, Thailand on November 12th as Japan�s representatives.

Source & Image: Oricon News