In 1984, long before Sarah Palin was John McCain’s vice presidential nominee, she (then Sarah Heath) entered into the Miss Alaska Pageant. She competed in a swimsuit competition of course. But more importantly, she showed off her musical prowess during the talent portion of the competition by playing the flute.

The announcer says: “She is an accomplished flautist who has been performing for ten years. She will be performing “The Homecoming” as written by Nathan Hardy…”

Here’s the video:

She didn’t win the competition.

Tags: 1984, alaska, blows, flautist, flute, governor, john mccain, miss alaska pageant, nathan hardy, nominee, sarah heath, sarah palin, swimsuit competition, talent competition, the homecoming, vice president, wasilla