If you like a challenge and are drawn to the unusual, you might consider entering one of these contests. Around the world there are folks who don’t mind being different for the sake of greatness. Okay, some people may find your expertise a little on the odd side. But what matters is your willingness to take part in something that is as unique and individual as you are. Whatever that may be. So pucker up your lips, garner your resources and hone that imagination of yours. You could make your mother proud. Following are ten contests you might want to enter.
World’s Championship Duck Calling Contest –
Hosted in Stuttgart, Arkansas the World’s Championship Duck Calling Contest draws competitors from around the globe though primarily from the United States and Canada. These folks are very serious about what they do. It is the longest running calling contest in history having its start in 1936. Every November people gather on Main Street to watch callers who have qualified in regional events go for the big one, The 2010 winner, Brad Allen, has competed ten times and says of his win “It’s a humbling experience”. Entry fee is $50 and the prize package totals $15,000. Start practicing.
Garden Railroad Contest –
Garden Railways magazine sponsors the Small Garden Railroad Contest. If you have a small garden and you enjoy model trains, this may be the contest for you. They are looking for creative railways that integrate well with your garden surroundings. This contest is open to anyone and has no limitation on gauge, scale or type of power used. Garden Railways does have specific official rules that include an accompanying article that describes your theme, structures and the rail line. They also want to see a plant list and quite a few clear photos of your project. Garden Railways will feature your garden railroad in its magazine if you win, Prizes are $300 for 1st place, $200 for 2nd and $100 for third. Start imagining.
Shearing And Wool Handling Championships –
Head on out to the Wairarapa district in New Zealand to participate in the world famous Golden Shears Competition, Starting in 1961, this annual competition draws huge crowds eager to watch the fiercely competitive young farmers show their skill. The event lasts three days and has several level categories. They include novice, junior, intermediate, senior and open shearing contest. There’s also wool handling and wool pressing events. The Golden Shears Competition also offers hours of great music and entertainment and turns the event into a celebration. You might even want to try out for the coveted triathlon award.
http://www.goldenshears.co.nz/
World Championship of Pizza –
Sponsored in the Sports Palace in Salsomaggiore, Italy, this competition has pizza-makers drooling. Competitors hail from all parts of the globe to display their various culinary skills. Most work as teams and are truly serious about their craft. The Italians often dominate most categories but chefs from Japan, Australia, the United States and other countries have emerged as champions. There are several categories where the pizza and pizza-maker are judged. They include fastest dough, largest dough, longest spin and box folding. Pizzas are judged by appearance, taste and ingredients combinations. Acrobatics with dishes of pasta adds panache. Have some fun with food.
International Whistlers Contest –
When whistlers gather in the whistling capital of the world, Louisburg, North Carolina, it is more of a convention than a competition. These people are serious and consider whistling a musical artform. The week of April 6th is declared “Happy Whistlers’ Week” by the governor of North Carolina. Contestents’ goal is to become the International Grand Champion and a special award is given to the person who has travelled the farthest distance to compete. There are both classical and popular categories and the five panel judge looks at your technique, presentation and performance. Stage presence and self-confidence are factored in and all whistling performances are solo. Be a bird and give it all you’ve got.
http://www.whistlingiwc.com/index.html
China’s Kissing Contest –
While you’re puckering up, check out the activities in Shenyang in Northeast China’a Liaoning province. Couples ranging in age from twenty to eighty gather at a ski area to do some creative kissing. Contestants are challenged to eschew the peck on the lips routine but instead strive to come up with the most difficult kissing position they can muster. The more complex the move the better chance contestants have to walk away with the cash prize. It is a sight to see in a country that discourages public displays of affection and plenty of gawkers are there for the show. All couples recieve a free box of drinks for participating. Show your love.
http://www.china.org.cn/photos/2010-12/31/content_21652881_3.htm
World Beard and Moustache Championships –
This international event is organized by Moustache and Beard Clubs from around the world but had its start in 1990 in Hofen/Enz, Germany – a small town in the Black Forest. Since then the competition has been held in several European countries and twice in the United States. Contestants work in teams and attempt to grown the most elaborate facial hair. Judges choose the best in several categories from delicate moustache to outrageous beard. Germany still dominates the event but as it becomes more popular it is certain to attract more challengers. To get yourself a trophy just let your hair hang down.
http://www.worldbeardchampionships.com/
Air Guitar World Championship –
In Oulu, Finland, energetic music lovers know how to strut their stuff. Since 1996, the absurd activity of feigning to play a guitar like you mean it has become an international and popular event. It is about the music though and song choices rev it up with tunes from the likes of Guns N’Roses and Van Halen. Contestants have heart and are often flamboyant and dramatic. But it’s not just fluff. Timing needs to be perfect and audience appeal is paramount. Contestants hail from all over the globe in the hope of becoming the best air guitarist in the world. Let’s pretend.
http://www.airguitarworldchampionships.com/en/event/agwc-2012
Nathan’s Hotdog Eating Contest –
And you thought you had no talent. Every 4th of July in Coney Island, New York competitive eaters gather to take part in the most famous hotdog eating contest in the world. Since 1916 when four immigrants met under the Brooklyn Bridge to settle an argument by seeing who could eat the most hotdogs in the shortest time, this contest has grown into a popular spectacle. You can even watch it on ESPN as millions of viewers do. Americans and Japanese usually dominate but many compete. The first place prize is $10,000 and the coveted Nathan’s Mustard Belt. Still more fun with food.
http://nathansfamous.com/PageFetch/
Ultimate Elvis Tribute Artist Competition –
They are still out there. Just like the late great Elvis Presley himself, folks who are keen on impersonating him can still be sighted. If you consider yourself an apt representation to the legacy of the King of Rock and Roll this contest may be for you. During “Elvis Week” in August, Elvis tribute artists from around the world get together in Memphis, Tennessee to compete. Contestants are judged not only by their vocals but by their appearance and stage presence. The first place winner will get all shook up with a cash prize of $20.000. Let’s rock.
http://www.elvis.com/events/ultimate_eta_contest/about_the_contest.aspx
