It was a pageant like no other: Mr. Legs XXIII returned to fill Generations Hall on July 22 due to its main attraction.
The men.
And not just any men. Men who donned costumes and fearlessly strode down the catwalk to the cheers of their many admirers.
Their purpose was to raise funds for Bridge House/Grace House, which offers no-cost, substance-use disorder treatment services and a safe place to recover.
Emcees Laura Buchtel and Mike Hoss expertly guided the event, which featured as contestants: newcomer, Matt Shine, and veterans: Tony Bertucci (second year), Jeffery Carlson (11th year), Steve Carnes (17th year), Ryan Haydel (fourth year), Travis Henthorn (eighth year), Chris Kazik (seventh year) and Michael Zarou (10th year).
Each was eligible in a variety of categories. And after much deliberation, the winners were chosen by celebrity judges Great Day Louisiana host Malik Mingo, WWL-TV anchor/reporter Whitney Miller, former contestant Roberto Espinoza and Vincent Giardina, president of the Oscar J. Tolmas Charitable Trust, which presented the event.
Those deemed the tops were: Best Performance: Steve Carnes; Best Costume: Tony Bertucci; Hairiest Legs: Jeffery Carlson; Skinniest Legs: Ryan Haydel; Rookie of the Year: Matt Shine and Fan Favorite: Chris Kazik
Michael Zarou, who also won Sexiest Legs, was bestowed the Mr. Legs XXIII crown, which is given to the contestant who has raised the most money for the event.
Fun Fact: This year’s event featured pop-culture influenced performances from “Barbie/Ken” (Tony Bertucci) and Taylor Swift (Ryan Haydel).
Ryan Haydel, Jeffrey Carlson, Matt Shine, Steve Carnes
Mike Hoss, Roberto Espinoza, Laura Buchtel
Vincent Giardina, Kevin Gardere
Tony Bertucci, Chris Kazik, Travis Henthorn, Michael Zarou
Malik Mingo, Whitney Miller, Rachael Boudreaux, Keith Boudreaux
