NYC beauty-pageant hopeful, 44, gets second chance at fulfilling childhood dream: ‘This is my year’

An Upper East Side songwriter is getting another shot at her childhood dream of becoming a beauty queen. Maura Matlak, now 44, is competing in the Miss New York USA pageant after the age limit was lifted, which had previously dashed her hopes twenty years ago.

Back in 2005, Maura, then 26, had to give up her chance to participate in the state pageant to record an album. When she finally had the opportunity again, she was no longer eligible due to age restrictions. However, the recent announcement of the age limit removal reignited her dream.

Songwriter Maura Matlak, 44, of Manhattan is fulfilling a lifelong dream by competing for the Miss New York USA pageant title.

Maura views this as her second chance, despite initial doubts about competing at her age. She is determined to challenge the younger contestants and make a statement about age and beauty in society. Her mission now is to inspire older women who may feel that their opportunities have passed.

Preparing for the pageant has been intense, with lifestyle changes like cutting out distractions and focusing on physical fitness. Maura's perspective has evolved since her twenties, and she sees this opportunity as a platform to discuss women's issues and challenge societal norms.

The contestant will vie for the Miss New York USA title in June.

While critics argue against lifting the age limit, Maura sees it as an opportunity to defy ageism and empower women of all ages. She believes that dreams have no expiration date and is excited to compete in June to make a positive impact and promote inclusivity in beauty pageants.

Matlak had to bow out of the contest years ago because of work.

Matlak is wearing a gown made with pieces of the dress she hoped to compete in back in 2005.

The beauty-pageant contestant won the title of Miss Radio City.