Mr. Gay Ireland, Max Krzyzanowski has become Mr. Gay World 2009 in front of a sold-out audience at a ski resort in Whistler, Canada.
After four days of challenges that included surviving in the wilderness, preparing dinner, photoshoots and creating a fashion show, 24 delegates were whittled down several finalists.
Mr. Gay Paraguay was the runner-up, Mr. Gay Philippines ensured Asia was well represented by taking the "Best Costume Award" and "Mr. Popular Award". Mr. Gay Argentina took Mr. Photogenic Award; Mr. Gay Colombia was supported by the fellow delegates with the Mr. Congeniality while Mr. Gay Paraguay won Mr. Swimwear. Mr. Gay Australia received the Mr. Leadership Award for his efforts at the various team challenges.
37-year-old Kryzanowski is a security guard for a private club in Dublin city, and is also a Muay Thai kickboxing instructor.
The new Mr. Gay World says he wanted to take part in the competition because "it's a unique opportunity to see and experience the gay community working on an international stage to further the cause of equality.
"In my professional life, the qualities of patience, respect and steadfastness under pressure have become my ethos, and I hope these traits are sought-after qualities for Mr Gay World," he said a statement on the competition's website.
A Kiwi-born Australian resident, 29-year-old Reece Karena, represented New Zealand in the competition, with sponsorship from Air New Zealand.
