The 2nd Annual MidAtlantic Beard and ‘Stache Championships, hosted by the RVA Beard League, made me feel warm and fuzzy inside and out. Held at the Canal Club on Saturday April 27, the event drew a crowd of over 700, with 212 competitors.
The 2nd Annual MidAtlantic Beard and ‘Stache Championships, hosted by the RVA Beard League, made me feel warm and fuzzy inside and out. Held at the Canal Club on Saturday April 27, the event drew a crowd of over 700, with 212 competitors. Ticket and raffle sales raised $5,000 to benefit Big Brothers Big Sisters of Greater Richmond & Tri-Cities. The championships inspired not only charity, but also creativity and cheer. This year’s event was so successful, next year’s championships are already scheduled for April 26, 2014 hosted again by the Canal Club.
All categories were exciting and highly competitive. This year, several categories, such as Full Beard, Natural, had so many contestants that they were organized into multiple heats. The judges and emcee, Dash from 103.7 The River, deserve their own share of praise, as the championships took over five hours to judge. By the end of the night, Jim Daly won the coveted 25-pound “best in show” trophy made from railroad spikes.
The fake creative facial hair category was arguably the most artistic and original of all. The winner, Lindsay Stinner, sported a whimsical blonde mustache with multiple perky curls creating an overall Dr. Seuss sensibility. Third runner up in this category featured a huge steampunk inspired metal ‘stache with moving cogs and watch faces. Other contestants used materials as diverse as fake foliage, mirror pieces, candy mustaches (meta facial hair!) and even a Barbie working a miniature pole.
In addition to the trophies, everyone had an opportunity to win one of a hundred donated raffle prizes. Prizes included treats like beard grooming supplies and salon certificates, but also truly original items such as a taxidermy deer butt with a bottle opener, and a slightly disturbing toy called “titty kitty.” Judge Jesse Smith of Loose Screw Tattoo donated a pretty amazing signed poster and shop t-shirt (guess who won it?!).
Overall, the entire night was a huge success and truly had a sense of community. Many locals and RVA Beard League members participated, in addition to people from Ohio, Colorado, New York, and even England. Even waiting in line outside to get in felt like a party. Thankfully, the next MidAtlantic Beard and ‘Stache Championships are less than a year away.
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When she isn’t appreciating beards, Melina can be found making jewelry or blogging.
Words by Melina B
Images by Tracy Ramone
