INDIANAPOLIS –Greg Slaven took the 2014 Mr. 501 Eagle title in front of a packed house on Saturday, Jan. 11, at Indy’s 501 Eagle.
Greg won the title ahead of three other contestants; the first runner up was Michael Fetters. The contestants, all residents of the city, are Sir Greg Slaven; Michael Fetters; Tom Fleetwood; and Greg Otto. Each contestant spoke about wanting to help the 501 Eagle to grow and to represent a unique region.
This year’s contest featured several prominent contestants from the Leather community. Greg Slaven has previously held the titles of Great Lakes Mr. Olympus 2011 and International Mr. Olympus 2011. Michael Fetters is previously Mr. Gaywater Loo 1998 and 2008 and Charlie’s Man of the Year 2009 for Chicago. Tom Fleetwood is a pledge of a local Leather club, the Indiana Falcons. And the final contestant, Greg, is an associate of the Indiana Falcons.
The emcee for the evening was bar manager, Jerry Roseberry. Judges included Tom Vester, the owner of the 501 bar and a frequent face at Leather community events; Robyn Fisher, 2013 International Ms Olympus and Great Lakes Ms Olympus 2011/2012; and Ron Clemmons, owner and producer of the Mr. TriState Leather, Rubber, and Puppy contests.
Several of the region’s titleholders showed up in support of the contest, with representatives from the Great Lakes Leather Alliance, Mr. Midwest Leather, Mr. TriState Leather and Rubber contests, Mr. and Ms. Olympus contests, and IMsL/IMsBB among attendees. The Indiana Falcons had a strong presence, with several members serving as volunteers for the contest.
The 501 Eagle was pleased to announce it’s continued support of local community members. A fundraiser had been held to raise funds for a community member afflicted with Stage 4 Lung Cancer the prior evening and raised $3500. The bar will feature it’s second annual “Cancer is a Drag” fundraising event on January 25th.
The winner received a sash, an original copy of “The Leatherman’s Handbook” by Larry Townsend, a copy of The Leather Contest Guide, and suspenders from the late Dan Clark, International Drummer 2000. Mr. 501 Eagle 2013, Jeremy Smith, could not be present but his service throughout the past year is appreciated.
Sir Greg will go on to represent the host city at the International Mr. Leather contest at the Chicago Marriott on the Magnificent Mile in Chicago.
