Palm Springs, Calif. ? Katie Blair, an 18-year-old from Montana, was crowned Miss Teen USA 2006 on Tuesday night after besting the competition in swimsuit, evening gown and interview categories.

First runner-up was Melissa Lingafelt of North Carolina and second runner-up was Katie Marie Cooper of North Dakota. Samantha Casey of Virginia was the third runner-up, while Brittany Sharp of Georgia placed fourth.

Blair succeeds Miss Teen USA 2005, Allie LaForce of Ohio.

Winnings include a scholarship to New York School of Film and Television, a year of living in Trump Tower, a wardrobe and a Mikimoto tiara.

The competition was telecast on NBC from the Palm Springs Convention Center.