Like last year, the Hoist was packed with people. The contest was even delayed by half an hour to allow the queues of people to get in. This year 6 people were brave enough to enter and marks were awarded by 5 judges. I was on the judging panel this year, having been placed 2nd in last year's competition.
 Two bear friends and Hoist regulars, John (right) and Mark, were in the crowd. |
 From left to right: Peter (judge and owner of Paris gym), Andy (judge and SMGays organiser), Chris (contestant no. 2) and Kurt (co-owner of the Hoist and compere) |
 At 11 o'clock the 6 contestants were waiting nervously by the stage. |
 This is me trying to be a judge. |
 Each entrant was called to the stage and interviewed by Kurt. |
 John (entrant no. 1) certainly made an impression as he bent Kurt over for a spanking demonstration. |
 Sam was 5th in the line-up. Marks were awarded for personality, sense of humour, leather image and sex appeal. |
 Last but not least, another John (contestant no. 6), who was very popular with the crowd. |
 He was the only entrant with obvious tattoos and piercings. This is the tattoo on his back. |
 Once the interviews were over the entrants could relax with free drinks for the rest of the night. |
 Before the winners were announced, a special award was given to the Hoist's longest serving staff member: Robert the doorman, seen here with his partner. |
 For the 2nd year running, Hoist regular Andy (above) handed out the prizes. John (no. 1) came in 3rd place, and Sam (no. 5) received 2nd place. |
 John (no. 6, above left) won overall, receiving a Hoist gold card and a leather sash made by Expectations. |
 In true "Blind Date" style, John had to pick an envelope to find out what destination he's be going to - and he chose New York. |
 Dave and me. Once the contest was over the party continued into the early hours. Hoist nights are always good fun but this was exceptional. Roll on next year! |
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