California Beach Beauty is Crowned PETA’s ‘Sexiest Vegan Over 50’

Oceanside Resident and Longtime Animal Advocate Nabs 10-Day Luxury Cruise—and a Platform to Help Even More Animals

For Immediate Release:
October 5, 2017

Contact:
Brooke Rossi 202-483-7382

She’s owned and operated a thriving dance studio for the past 28 years and been an ardent animal rights proponent for decades—and today, Oceanside resident Erin Riley-Carrasco has also been named the female winner of PETA Prime’s 2017 Sexiest Vegan Over 50 contest. She beat out four other finalists and dozens of entrants from across the country to win a 10-day luxury Caribbean cruise, courtesy of Holistic Holiday at Sea.

In her 33 years as a PETA supporter, 52-year-old Riley-Carrasco has protested everything from stores that sell fur to universities that experiment on animals to circuses that force elephants, lions, and tigers to perform. “Vegans are among the most compassionate individuals I know, and their strength of character and empathy toward animals are undeniably attractive,” she says. “I want to raise awareness of the huge difference every vegan can make, and hopefully, this title will give me a platform to do so.”

“Erin Riley-Carrasco is dedicated to spreading the word that choosing animal-free food, clothing, and entertainment makes a more compassionate planet for everyone,” says PETA Executive Vice President Tracy Reiman. “PETA is recognizing her for being both a tireless advocate for animals and living proof that nourishing vegan foods help keep us fit, trim, and sexy at any age.”

The male winner of this year’s contest is New York–based elementary school teacher Doug Schmidt. PETA—whose motto reads, in part, that “animals are not ours to eat”—selected the winners based on several factors, including vote count.

For more information and to view Riley-Carrasco’s bio, please visit PETAPrime.org or click here.