Teen's Rambling Pageant Answer Sweeps Internet

(from WSB-TV/Atlanta)

COLUMBIA, S.C. -- The second crack at the question was much easier for Miss South Carolina Teen USA.

Lauren Caitlin Upton of Lexington says she was overwhelmed Saturday night when she was asked why many people can't find the United States on a map.

Her answer in the Miss Teen USA pageant was incoherent and rambling. But it was a hit on the YouTube Web site for its ineptitude.

It got Upton an invitation to NBC'S "Today" show, where hosts Matt Lauer and Ann Curry commiserated with her about the difficulties of speaking on live national television.

Upton says she was in complete shock when she heard the question and only heard a few words.

She says she went blank, misunderstood and made a mistake.

When Curry gave her the question today, Upton said everyone she knows does know where the United State is and if some people don't, there should be more emphasis on geography in school.

Despite the gaff Saturday night, she finished as third runner-up.