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 A Bundaberg-based quarry worker will become the first Australian ever to compete for the title of Mr International Bear at the International Bear Rendezvous in San Francisco on February 18 next year.
Ray Simonsen, 44, told Queensland Pride he will compete against 15 others for the coveted title. “There are 12 Americans and four internationals in the competition next year. Contestants from Spain and Germany have won in previous years but this is the first time they’ve had a contestant from Australasia,” he said. “I’m told the organisers are over the moon about it”
Describing himself as an “average run-of-the-mill guy”, Ray won the honour of competing in San Francisco by winning the Mr Australasia Bear title at Melbourne’s Southern Exposure in June.
“For me to win in Melbourne was the last thing on my mind,” he says. “I was in it for fun and to represent Brisbears, but to bloody win it…”
In order to win the international title Ray will be judged on his fundraising activity, through an interview with the judging panel, and in three ‘bearwalk’ categories.
“There’s Bear Casual, Bear Minimal – though they’re a little more prudish over there and nudity is not allowed – and Bear Cruise. That’s the gear you wear where you go out looking to pick up,” he said.
Brisbears is currently raising funds to help send Ray to San Francisco. Skypak Lighting will also donate proceeds from the cloakroom at this month’s Sleaze Ball to the cause.
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