Thirteen year old Kayla Woodson of Waggaman, La., took home the big prize at the Colgate Country Showdown competition Saturday night.

The competition was fierce, with stellar performances from all nine contestants, who hailed from all over Mississippi and Louisiana.

Woodson, a seventh grader, said she had won other local competitions before, but this would be the first time she would advance to the state level.

Each of the top three winners took home a trophy, while Woodson also received $250 cash, a chance to compete in the state finals in Jackson in October, and an all-expense paid trip to Nashville, Tenn.

Second place went to Wing and a Prayer of Gulfport, who will attend the state competition if for some reason Woodson is unable to go.

Third place went to Niki Nix of Pearl.

Little Miss “Mini” Minnie Pearl, also known as Kayla Ann of Bay St. Louis, provided comic relief at various points throughout the night. Miss Pearl is 11 years old.

The house band, Keith Hoda and the Country Sounds, provided background music for some of the contestants as well as providing entertainment while the judges tallied the votes. Hoda and his band have been the house band for WRJW in the 16 years that it has been hosting the Showdown.

Photography for the event was provided by John Young Photography, and a proof book of photos can be viewed at the radio station.