NEW ZEALAND TAKES MR. GAY WORLD 2012
It was almost third time lucky for South Africa, but Mr. New Zealand ultimately took the fourth Mr. Gay World title on Sunday night in Johannesburg, South Africa.
The 32-year-old hunky German-born Andreas Derleth, who lives in New Zealand, took the top spot out of 22 delegates from around the world at the glitzy Grand Finale ceremony at Gold Reef City Casino.
Derleth works in operations in the retail industry in the city of Auckland and stood out dramatically from his competitors thanks to his imposing almost two meter height.
He previously said that he entered the competition to “build bridges where contrasts exist.”
“It’s overwhelming,” Derleth told Mambaonline after his big win.
“I still have trouble realising it. I hope to do a good job and achieve something this year.”
He added that he honestly didn’t expect to win. “There were so many great candidates. I really hope that the friendships will last.”
South Africa came remarkably close to taking the title for the third time in a row with 24-year-old East London DA councillor Lance Weyer coming in as the first runner-up.
The country previously won the contest in 2010 and 2011.
In third place was 30-year-old Remy Frejaville, who represented France.
The event was hosted by well-known television and radio presenter Soli Philander and the much-loved drag personality Cathy Specific.
The show included performances by Ukrainian pop star Kamaliya and Baby M from Japan.
It was announced at Sunday’s event that the next Mr. Gay World competition, which aims to find a global gay ambassador for the LGBT community, will take place in Antwerp next year.
The contest will form part of the cultural programme of the worldOutgames that will be held simultaneously in the Belgian city.
Baie geluk.en wow sa goed gedoen.j
Congratulations to the winner and Lance. Well done to SA for hosting suc a fabulous event! Hopefully people will be more aware!
Well done to all ! Cathay Specific must have been good – remember her from Madame Zingara !
What a world class event! Well done to the organisers. As a South African gay man i am so proud of our community and country.
well atleast the winner didnt win on looks! Ha
so cool to have been of this, props to all involved
Geluk aan almal – Geluk aan SA !!! Whow …
WHAT a show! Was fantastic
Was so great, pity it is all over
I have no idea what are the requirements to get the title, it was definitely not for good looks. Everyone has their own taste, but sorry this isnt mine. I have seen some really sexy guys in my own neighbourhood that can catch the eye of a strait guy. Next time when you choose Mr Gay world at least choose someone more attractive and isnt bald.