The Mr. Prime Choice contest was originally founded in 1981 by the staff at The Ripcord, because they wanted to promote a contest that more accurately reflected the demographic of the bar's patrons. Straying from the youth-oriented aspect of much of gay culture, the Mr. Prime Choice contest was designed for men 40 years or older who represent the masculine aesthetic embraced by the leather/Levi/uniform/fetish community.
Contestants are required to raise money for 501(c)3 charities of their choice in the months leading up to the contest, starting January 1st and ending the Friday before the contest. The amount raised by each contestant is factored into his overall score, along with leather image, stage presence, and public speaking. The contest has produced a number of community leaders throughout the years.
This year the contest returned to being an annual event, after having been a bi-annual event for the past 8 years. It takes place every April at the Ripcord and additional funds are raised for charities the night of the contest.
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