Miss Teen USA replaces swimsuit portion of the competition with 'athletic wear'

The Miss Teen USA pageant is dropping the swimsuit portion from its competition, replacing bikinis with athletic wear.

A spokesperson for the pageant revealed that the swap is in an effort to showcase the physical fitness of the competitors, which range in age from 15 to 19.  

Current Miss Teen USA Katherine Haik said the transition would also set a strong example for young women everywhere.

The organization also released a statement about the change, saying it was committed to 'continuing to evolve in ways that celebrate women's strength, confidence, and beauty'. 

The 2016 Miss Teen USA pageant will be held in Las Vegas on July 30. It has not been televised since 2007, but is now streamed live on the organization's website. 

Miss Teen USA has been held yearly since 1983.  

The Miss Teen USA pageant is dropping the swimsuit portion from its competition (pictured left is Miss Teen USA 2015 Katherine Haik, right is Miss Pennsylvania Teen USA Jasmine Daniels)