The famous Hooters swimsuit contest is on again. Contestants from all over the world will come to Las Vegas on July 18th, to compete for the Hooters crown. More than $155,000 has been allocated as prize money, to be divided between the lucky winners. Not surprisingly, The Hooters swimsuit contest has outgrown its humble beginnings of a little-town competition.

The Hooters swimsuit contest is truly an international affair, with competitors and visitors from Australia, China, South Africa and most of Europe coming to take part. No matter what you think about its nature, the contest found its place in the entertainment calendar of locals; with more than ever Americans wanting to be there.

The whole idea originated in Florida. Here, the scantily dressed girls served seafood and chicken wings to the tune of golden oldies. To get the customers excited, the personnel consist of mainly attractive young babes flaunting their charms. Yes, that's formed the origins of the Hooters swimsuit contest.

There are always questions about the moral issue with the Hooters swimsuit contest. At least as far as some more conservative Americans see it. As for the competing girls; they treat it as a way having some fun, and perhaps a stepping stone to a new and exciting career. Overseas competitors coming to Las Vegas each year, from over 20 countries seem to agree, and the contest attracts more attention than ever.

As the Hooters chain counts around 430 restaurants located in 18 countries, there's no shortage of international competitors. Every girl dreams about at least participating in the Hooters swimsuit contest. Winning would be an extra bonus Considering that there are 18,000 girls able to compete, it's rather hard to be the number one in the Hooters International Swimsuit Pageant. But, for those blessed with attractive figure and talent, the sky is the limit.

Swimsuit contests do seem to elicit either a hot or cold response from most people - they either love them or they detest them, but at least the Hooters contest does offer great rewards and incentives for their girls. They all have a chance of being featured in the annual Hooters Calendars, and the Hooters Magazines.

For any would be stars of television or the movies, or even the proverbial "pin-up-girl", the Hooters swimsuit contest offers a worthwhile stage where they can show off their charms. The contest itself does feature a segment where the girls get the chance to show off in evening dress, but of course it is the bikini parade that most will be interested in.

Miss Hooters International receives a well earned $50,000 cash prize, appearances in national TV commercials, and of course will feature predominantly in the Hooters advertising campaigns and magazines for the coming year. There is also the title of Miss Hooters Congeniality, a reader's choice and a Miss Photogenic award that are presented on the night.

And while the US public is deeply divided over the Hooters swimsuit contest, the glamorous girls keep parading and having a good fun. When the night of July 25th arrives, all will be decided. For another whole year, a new beautiful Hooters queen will reign.